Texas House Bill HB1309

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to authorizing a credit representing motor fuels taxes against, and imposing, a mileage tax and to the use of revenue from that tax; providing penalties.

Impact

If passed, the bill would establish a structured payment system for the mileage tax, with specific rates based on the weight of the vehicle and its fuel efficiency. This could significantly alter how transportation funding is sourced in Texas, shifting some of the burden from fuel taxes to mileage-based payments. The revenue collected from the mileage tax is to be deposited in a dedicated road construction account, reinforcing the assurance that funds will go towards improving and maintaining public roadways, a critical infrastructure need for many Texans.

Summary

House Bill 1309 introduces a mileage tax to be imposed on the number of miles traveled by motor vehicles during the designated tax period, in addition to a credit for motor fuel taxes. This bill is intended to generate revenue for the maintenance and construction of public roadways in Texas. The legislation aims to amend Texas tax law by introducing Chapter 163 to the Tax Code, which will delineate the parameters for the mileage tax, penalties for non-compliance, and the use of the generated revenue for road construction purposes.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1309 appears cautiously optimistic among proponents who advocate for innovative solutions to fund transportation infrastructure. Supporters argue that a mileage tax could lead to more equitable funding sources, especially as vehicle fuel efficiency improves, reducing the effectiveness of traditional motor fuels taxes. However, concerns exist regarding the fairness and potential financial burden on lower-income drivers who may face increased costs under this new tax structure, leading to mixed feelings among the general public and some legislators.

Contention

A key point of contention lies in the implementation and administration of the mileage tax. Critics express concerns over privacy, administrative complexity, and the tracking of vehicle mileage. The potential for a database of mileages raises alarms about government overreach and data security. Additionally, the impacts on rural versus urban drivers can lead to differing opinions; rural residents may feel disproportionately affected due to longer travel distances. Hence, the debate reflects broader discussions about transportation equity and efficiency in state funding mechanisms.