2/10/09-An effort has died that was a nonbinding measure asking for a study by a joint subcommittee to determine the desirability and feasibility of replacing the state’s fuel tax with “a mileage-based fee predicated on vehicle-miles traveled in Virginia.”
Sponsored by Delegate David Poisson, D-Sterling, House Joint 626 remained in committee past the deadline to advance, effectively killing it for the year.
Poisson wrote in House Joint 626 that alternative funding measures are worth consideration because the fuel tax generates less revenue each year. Because people are driving less and buying vehicles that are less expensive, he said long-term transportation needs cannot be met.
The joint subcommittee would have been comprised of eight lawmakers and two ex officio members. In addition to determining the desirability and feasibility of a fee based on mileage traveled in the state, the group would have looked into using the same system to impose and collect congestion charges among other things.
The subcommittee would have concluded its meetings by November 2009. Findings and recommendations would have been submitted to lawmakers in time for the start of the 2010 regular session.

10/21/08-Delegate David Poisson, D-Sterling, is the sponsor of a nonbinding measure that asks for a study by a joint subcommittee to determine the desirability and feasibility of replacing the state’s fuel tax with “a mileage-based fee predicated on vehicle-miles traveled in Virginia.”
Poisson wrote in House Joint 626 that alternative funding measures are worth consideration because the fuel tax generates less revenue each year. Because people are driving less and buying vehicles that are less expensive, he said long-term transportation needs cannot be met.
The joint subcommittee would be comprised of eight lawmakers and two ex officio members. In addition to determining the desirability and feasibility of a fee based on mileage traveled in the state, the group would look into using the same system to impose and collect congestion charges among other things.
The subcommittee would conclude its meetings by November 2009. Findings and recommendations would be submitted to lawmakers in time for the start of the 2010 regular session.
These and other legislative efforts can be considered during the regular session that convenes Jan. 14.
For bill status, call 804-698-1500. In Virginia, call 877-391-3228.