State lawmakers seeking a new revenue stream to pay for the upkeep of roads are looking for owners of vehicles that use little or no gasoline to pay a little more.
The theory is that much of the money to maintain and fix roads comes from taxes at the pump. And if certain vehicle owners have found a way to not show up at the pump as often, they still need to pay their fair share.
According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, at least eight states have introduced bills this year to create taxes or fees on hybrids and electric vehicles. Three -- Nebraska, Virginia and Washington -- have enacted the new taxes, ranging from $64 a year in Virginia to $100 in Washington.
General Motors, reacting to a proposed tax on EVs and hybrids in Michigan, says that wouldn't be fair to EV and hybrid buyers, manufacturers and suppliers. Brian O'Connell, a GM lobbyist, said the $75 annual fee proposed on such vehicles in Michigan could inhibit sales.
Said O'Connell: "We do not believe our manufacturers and customers should be penalized for doing what's right."
