8legs: Highway trust fund

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The Gas-Tax Reckoning

The federal gas tax faces renewed scrutiny as pump prices near $4.50 per gallon, fueling a stalled policy debate.
Lawmakers consider a first-ever pause on the 18.4-cent federal tax, amid differing views on infrastructure funding consequences.
The gas tax historically funds the Highway Trust Fund, providing the majority of highway and transit spending.
Analysts warn pausing the tax could undermine transportation funding and accelerate infrastructure deficits.
Several countries have paused fuel taxes to ease drivers’ costs, illustrating international contrasts in tax bases.
Projections show a long-term funding gap, with the Highway Trust Fund facing multibillion-dollar shortfalls in coming years.
Ideas to replace the gas tax include a vehicle-miles-traveled tax and fees on electric vehicles.
The piece notes a tension between supporting transit and avoiding intrusive political trade-offs around fuel efficiency.
The gas tax’s linkage to highway expansion is criticized for potentially increasing driving and undermining environmental aims.
Experts argue reform could shift infrastructure decisions toward cost-benefit analysis and sustainable transport.

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