An online petition drive against Cal Trans’ possible mileage-based use tax has been launched by Nevada County’s congressman. Doug LaMalfa says the federal government is also closely watching Cal Trans’ pilot program, which begins in July. He says legislation has been introduced to duplicate the study
in other states…

click to listen to Congressman LaMalfa

LaMalfa says the use tax also hits rural areas, like Nevada County, disproportionately…

click to listen to Congressman LaMalfa

LaMalfa says expansion of the program statewide would create a new bureaucracy, rather than focus on better use of the fuel consumption tax method that’s currently in place. Cal Trans says the use tax could help close a growing funding gap for road and highway improvements, since gas tax revenue has dropped, due to falling prices at the pump. But LaMalfa says perhaps the government should put a stop to the 100-billion dollar high speed rail project.
If you’re interested in signing the petition, go to LaMalfa’s web site.