Pay-per-mile road usage charge bill introduced in Olympia

Washington State is taking a pivotal step toward modernizing its transportation funding with the introduction of House Bill 1921, led by Transportation Committee Chair Jake Fey. The proposed legislation seeks to establish a pay-per-mile road usage charge as a replacement for the declining gas tax revenues, primarily impacted by the rise of fuel-efficient and electric vehicles. The transition will begin with a voluntary program for electric and hybrid vehicles from 2027 to 2029, encouraging early adoption without additional registration fees. As the program evolves, it will become mandatory for these vehicles by 2031, with a gradual inclusion of all fuel-efficient gas vehicles by 2035. The charge will start at 2.

6 cents per mile and will be periodically adjusted to mirror gas tax revenue. This initiative aims to create a fairer system where all drivers contribute to road maintenance based on their usage rather than fuel consumption. Stakeholders, including Debbie Young from the Washington State Transportation Commission, support the initiative, highlighting its viability and fairness. This shift represents a critical adaptation in transportation funding as the state prepares for a future with fewer gas-powered vehicles.