Twenty-nine states introduced over 87 bills related to increasing transportation investment in the first month of 2019.
Motor fuel taxes continue to be a popular method to raise new revenue. Nine states— Arizona, Hawaii, Minnesota, Mississippi, North Dakota, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Virginia, and Wyoming— have already proposed increasing one or more types of motor fuel tax to generate funding for transportation construction. Additionally, Nebraska is proposing alterations to its variable-rate formula to increase revenue.
Continuing a trend from previous years, several states are proposing electric vehicle fees as a way to ensure all vehicles that create wear and tear on roads pay for their share of maintenance. Seven states— Arizona, Hawaii, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Wyoming— introduced legislation in January to implement an electric vehicle registration fee. Five of those states also included an additional registration fee for hybrid vehicles.
Several states are also considering innovate funding solutions during the 2019 legislative session. Mileage based user fees are being considered in New Hampshire and Missouri, while legislation in Massachusetts proposes a study into alternative funding sources. Additionally, three states— Missouri, Connecticut, and Virginia— have introduced legislation to utilize tolling for new revenue.
Of the legislation introduced in January, only three measures advanced beyond their first chamber, with 84 bills introduced and awaiting further action. Several states have not yet convened for the 2019 legislative sessions.
Follow ARTBA-TIAC’s “State Transportation Funding Legislation” page for live updates on the bills you’re tracking!