The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) was pleased to hear President Donald Trump call for a $1.5 trillion investment in infrastructure at this week’s State of the Union address, but is worried the plan focuses too much on private investment.
The Administration has proposed converting some roads into tolled roads, selling or leasing existing roads, and private-public partnerships.
OOIDA acknowledges that the topic of raising taxes is an unpopular one. It believes, however, that the best way to finance infrastructure is through a fuel tax on gasoline and diesel.
“If elected officials think a fuel tax increase would be unpopular, wait until Americans encounter more and higher tolling,” OOIDA Acting President Todd Spencer said. “An investment of $1.5 trillion in infrastructure will help dramatically improve our roads while spurring economic growth. But increased tolling is not the way to pay for it. Instead, the White House and Congress should find the courage to increase federal fuel taxes, which are a significantly more reliable and efficient source of revenue than tolling.”
The government has known fuel taxes are an effective way to raise infrastructure funds since President Dwight Eisenhower’s administration, OOIDA said.
Lawmakers need to be honest with the nation, Spencer added.