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01/02/2009 10:41 AM
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Oregon Gov Wants Mileage Tax
SustainableBusiness.com News
Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski wants his state to switch from a gas tax
to a system that taxes people for how many miles they actually drive.
He is asking the state legislature to move forward with a plan
that would replace the central funding source for the state's
transportation initiatives, according to an Associated Press story.
The state's Department of Transportation tested a system in 2007
that used satellite-based GPS technology in 300 vehicles to measure
mileage. Instead of paying $0.24 per gallon in gas tax at the pump, a
device read the GPS mileage and charge 1.2 cents per mile.
According to information posted online the governor wants a task
force "to partner with auto manufacturers to refine technology that
would enable Oregonians to pay for the transportation system based on
how many miles they drive."
As more electric and alternative fuel vehicles hit U.S. roadways, a
mileage-based tax system would insure that tax revenue continues to
fund transportation development.
Kulongoski's proposal is part of a transportation bill filed for the upcoming legislative session.
New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman wrote earlier this week that a nationwide gas tax is a win-win proposition for national security and the environment.
Would you support a gas or mileage tax? Please share your comments.
