If enacted, AB 1756 would significantly alter California's approach to transportation funding, ceasing the increase of funds allocated for the maintenance of highways, local roads, and public transportation systems. It has been reported that California currently faces a $59 billion deficit for maintaining its state highway system and an $78 billion shortfall for local street maintenance. By repealing the funding mechanisms established by the Road Repair and Accountability Act, advocates of AB 1756 argue that it could alleviate the financial burden on residents who would otherwise accrue increased fees.
AB 1756, introduced by Assembly Member Brough, aims to repeal the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017, thereby eliminating various taxes and fees that were set to support transportation funding in California. The existing Act had implemented a series of tax increases including a $0.12 per gallon increase in gasoline tax, a $0.20 increase in diesel tax, and imposed additional fees on zero-emission vehicles, amongst others. The repeal seeks to halt these taxes from taking effect, reflecting the urgency of addressing the state's critical transportation funding needs immediately.
The discussions surrounding AB 1756 have been contentious, with significant debate regarding its implications for California's infrastructure. Proponents argue that the current tax proposals disproportionately burden residents and do little to ensure efficient use of funds. However, opponents caution that eliminating these funding streams jeopardizes the already deteriorating state infrastructure, ultimately leading to higher repair costs and complications for local governments attempting to maintain their roads and transportation networks. The urgency behind AB 1756 is coupled with concerns about its potentially detrimental effects on infrastructure longevity and public safety.