A new bipartisan bill introduced in the House this week proposes an annual fee of $130 for electric vehicle owners. The fee is intended to help cover the cost of maintaining and repairing the nation’s roads.
Currently, gas taxes fund most road repairs, but electric vehicles do not pay these taxes. Lawmakers argue that EV owners should contribute to the infrastructure they use.
The proposed fee would apply to all battery-electric cars and trucks. It would be collected annually at the time of vehicle registration.
Supporters of the bill say it creates a fair system for all drivers. Electric vehicles are heavier than traditional cars and cause similar wear on road surfaces.
Critics worry the fee could slow the adoption of electric vehicles. They argue it places an extra burden on consumers trying to switch to cleaner transportation.
The legislation is still in its early stages and must pass multiple committees. It also needs approval from both chambers of Congress before becoming law.
If enacted, the fee would take effect in 2027. States would be responsible for collecting and distributing the funds to federal road projects.
