Jan 20, 2023
Fuel tax revenues in the state are projected to fall by $600 million over the next 28 years. In a report submitted to Gov. Jay Inslee and the Legislature, the Washington State Transportation Commission proposed a new tax scheme to replace falling fuel tax revenues. Fuel tax revenues are projected to fall by $600 million, or roughly $21.4 million per year, over the next 28 years, as previously reported by The Center Square. Citing declining fuel tax revenue due to increased efficiency of engines and adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, the report highlights the need to find alternate sources of revenue for the Washington State Department of Transportation to maintain Washington's roads. The WSTC recommends continuation of an exploratory program that began in 2012 researching the viability of a Road Usage Charge, or a per mile tax on all miles driven by residents of the Evergreen State - a gasless gas tax, if you will. "As an alternative to higher motor fuel taxes and vehic