11/29/10-Transportation funding in Idaho would get a shot in the arm under a plan outlined by a governor-appointed task force. Truckers could be responsible for paying much more than before.
The 15-member panel will submit its final report to Gov. Butch Otter in December. Otter created the panel 18 months ago to address transportation funding options.
The panel has determined that Idaho needs another $540 million each year to fully address needed repairs and new projects throughout the state. More than 20 policy changes to help meet the half-a-billion-dollar goal were identified for further review by the governor and lawmakers.
A fuel tax increase and a plan to tie the tax to the rate of inflation are funding options that are expected to get the most attention from lawmakers. Panel members noted that each penny increase in the tax would raise $8.2 million for roads.
Of particular note to truckers, revenue-raising options include higher truck registration fees and bringing back the weight-distance tax, which was removed in 2000.
A state study claims that motorists are paying more than their fair share, while tractor-trailers underpay.
Other options listed include putting a stop to diversions of funds away from the Idaho Transportation Department. One source eyed by the panel is the 5 percent of fuel tax revenue now earmarked for the Idaho State Police.
Also sought is a permanent restoration of a 3 percent share of the fuel tax that has been applied to off-road trails.
The task force declined, however, to offer any specific increases or timeline for changes.
Despite the release of the final report and the upcoming regular session scheduled to convene in about six weeks, changes are not expected to happen anytime soon because nobody has an appetite for higher taxes.
The task force called for the governor and state lawmakers to work on the options presented to them once the economy turns around. At that time, more revenue is expected to be available for transportation work.