#United States #Verra Mobility #Arizona #EV owners #energy tax

Majority of Americans Support Energy Tax on EV Owners

A comprehensive survey conducted by Verra Mobility Corporation has recently indicated that a significant percentage of Americans, specifically 73%, believe that owners of electric vehicles (EVs) should be subject to an 'energy tax' aimed at funding essential roadways and infrastructure improvements. This survey, which garnered input from 2,000 participants, shines a light on public sentiment regarding the current state of the U.S. infrastructure and the funding mechanisms employed to support it.

The Changing Landscape of Funding

Traditionally, funding for roadway maintenance and improvements has heavily relied on the federal gas tax, which has been a primary source since 1932. Currently, this tax imposes an 18.4 cents per gallon charge on gasoline and 24.4 cents on diesel. However, with the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, revenue from the gas tax is steadily declining. For instance, in Pennsylvania, the state has reported a staggering drop in gas tax revenue amounting to approximately $250 million from 2019 to 2024 as more drivers shift to electric vehicles.

The survey findings resonate with a collective concern about the deteriorating condition of America’s roads and bridges. An overwhelming 93% of respondents acknowledged that infrastructure within their states requires significant improvements. Consequently, when posed with the question of how to recoup lost funding, a vast majority called for an implementation of an energy tax on EV owners.

Public Perception of Toll Roads

Interestingly, the survey also highlighted Americans’ perspectives on toll roads as an alternative funding solution. The results proved that more than 75% of participants held a favorable or neutral view towards road usage charging. A majority expressed that they find toll roads to be a fairer method of funding compared to traditional income taxes. Specifically, 67% believed that toll roads are more equitable and acceptable given that the funds collected would be directed towards enhancing the quality and safety of infrastructure.

Moreover, the survey revealed that 51% of Americans are generally supportive of toll roads being leveraged to finance transportation projects. Although there was some division, a tangible number of respondents showed a willingness to consider other funding alternatives like congestion pricing and road usage charging programs.

The Economic Impact

The tolling market in the U.S. was valued at approximately $12.5 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to grow to $18.6 billion by 2030. This growth signals a pivotal shift in how infrastructure projects — which an estimated 93% of Americans agree requires immediate attention — might be funded going forward. Programs such as New York City’s congestion pricing have demonstrated the potential for user-based funding models to yield dependable revenue streams while offering improved travel experiences.

Verra Mobility’s Executive Vice President, Stacey Moser, commented on this evolving scenario, stating, “The U.S. is undergoing a fundamental change in infrastructure funding.” Introducing policies that facilitate user-based funding not only engenders a stable income source but also enhances travel efficiency, ultimately leading to safer roads and improved quality of life for citizens.

The Role of Verra Mobility

Verra Mobility has positioned itself as a key player in the tolling sector, providing critical insights into the development and expansion of funding programs. With over 15 years of experience in managing toll payments across a vast network, Verra Mobility efficiently processes around 300 million toll transactions annually for over seven million vehicles worldwide. Their expertise ensures that payments are accurately billed to the appropriate vehicles and drivers, facilitating seamless travel across various toll roads.

In summary, as the U.S. faces escalating challenges in infrastructure funding amidst the growing prevalence of electric vehicles, the results from the Verra Mobility survey might serve as an impetus for legislative changes that prioritize innovative funding mechanisms such as energy taxes and toll roads. With the public calling for improved roads and infrastructure, addressing these issues can potentially lead to a more robust and efficient transportation network.

Conclusion

The sentiment among Americans regarding the obligation of EV owners to contribute towards infrastructure funding is evident and could herald a new era of infrastructural financing. As the conversation around energy taxes gains traction, it remains crucial for policymakers to consider these perspectives in their future initiatives aimed at enhancing the nation’s roads and bridges.