EDITOR:
In future years, Nevada will be billions short in funding for public roads due in part to the effects of inflation, hybrid/electric vehicle use and new fuel efficiency standards expected to cut fuel consumption nearly in half by 2016. This will have a devastating effect on the state's ability to provide the roads that all of us rely on in our daily lives. It also highlights the limitations of the fuel tax.
You have probably read about Nevada Department of Transportation's vehicle miles traveled fee study, which will evaluate replacing the current fuel tax with a vehicle miles traveled fee. For this pilot study, a sampling of volunteers will have their vehicles outfitted with technologies to test different systems, from simple odometer readings to more technological GPS systems.
The goal is to address the following questions: Can a vehicle miles traveled system meet the demands of the changing times? What about equity between different vehicle types? How will it ensure that accuracy, security and ease of payment are addressed? But, privacy is key. Can it be set up to limit the need for personal data? Can the highest level of accountability and transparency be achieved? Which system would allow the public the most input and ability to oversee fair use?
Vehicle miles traveled systems have been evaluated and endorsed by national panels of experts. As the system is debated nationally, this pilot study will give Nevada a head start in understanding how it might work for the citizens of the state and allow us to have a voice in the national debate. We hope you will provide your input at www.vmtfeenv.com.
Scott Rawlins
Deputy Director
Nevada Department of Transportation
