Louisiana House Bill HB483

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/25/11
• Refer: 4/25/11

Caption

(Constitutional Amendment) Increases the motor vehicle license tax on private automobiles and establishes the Transportation and Infrastructure Growth of Economy through Roads (TIGER) Fund (OR +$15,730,670 SD RV See Note)

Impact

If enacted, the bill is anticipated to significantly enhance the financing options available for crucial transportation infrastructure projects. By channeling dedicated resources into the TIGER Fund, the state government aims to expedite the development and completion of various highway projects that are essential for improving transportation connections, enhancing safety, and fostering economic growth across Louisiana. The amendment requires that construction on these targeted projects begin or be completed no later than January 1, 2017, thereby setting aggressive timelines for project initiation.

Summary

House Bill 483 proposes a constitutional amendment to increase the minimum annual license tax on private automobiles from $10 to $30 while establishing the Transportation and Infrastructure Growth of Economy through Roads (TIGER) Fund. This fund will be dedicated exclusively to funding specific highway projects across the state, with a directive that 66% of the tax revenues collected will be allocated towards this new fund. The remaining 34% will continue to support the existing Transportation Trust Fund. The bill outlines the types of highway projects that will qualify for funding and emphasizes a structured approach to investment and expenditure from the TIGER Fund, which will be overseen by the state treasurer.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 483 is somewhat mixed. Supporters argue that increasing the motor vehicle tax is a necessary step towards addressing the state's infrastructural deficits and that a dedicated fund like the TIGER Fund is beneficial for long-term planning and project completion. Conversely, critics might view this tax increase as an added financial burden on residents, expressing concerns that higher taxes could be detrimental to low-income families and that priority should be given to more sustainable funding mechanisms.

Contention

A notable point of contention revolves around the ramifications of imposing higher taxes on motor vehicles for private use. While proponents of the bill highlight the necessity of upgrading infrastructure to cope with growing population demands and traffic needs, opponents argue that it represents an undue financial strain on vehicle owners, particularly those with lower incomes. Additionally, there is a debate on whether such measures are enough to solve deeper systemic issues related to transportation funding. Opponents may also contest the effectiveness of the TIGER Fund in delivering real and timely physical improvements to the roadways.