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Bill

SB 226

Highway use fee; DMV to convene work group to determine tiered flat rate system, report.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Travis Hackworth

Virginia DMV must study and propose a tiered flat-rate highway use fee system, examining alternative transportation funding mechanisms without implementing fees immediately.

Left in Appropriations
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Bill Summary · SB 226

Legislative bill overview

SB 226 directs Virginia's Department of Motor Vehicles to convene a work group tasked with designing a tiered flat-rate system for highway use fees. The bill requires the DMV to study and report back on how such a system could be structured and implemented, but does not itself establish or impose any fees.

Why is this important

This addresses Virginia's transportation funding challenges by exploring alternative revenue mechanisms beyond traditional gas taxes, which have declined in real value due to inflation and improved fuel efficiency. The tiered approach could affect how different vehicle classes or usage patterns contribute to road maintenance and infrastructure costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Equity concerns: A flat-rate or tiered system may disproportionately burden rural drivers, low-income households, or those with longer commutes compared to usage-based alternatives
  • Implementation costs: Creating a new fee collection and administration system carries upfront expenses that must be weighed against revenue generated
  • Business impact: Commercial vehicles and fleet operators may face different cost structures, potentially affecting logistics and transportation industries

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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