Illinois considers new way to fund roads: Charging drivers by the mile
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) — A new proposal in Springfield would change how Illinois funds its roads, by charging drivers by the mile instead of a gas tax.
The proposal, filed by Sen. Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) and Sen. Christopher Belt (D-East St. Louis), calls for starting a pilot program to study the effectiveness of charging drivers by the mile, something the state is considering due to the prevalence of more fuel-efficient and electric vehicles on Ilinois roadways.
Since fuel-efficient cars use less gasoline, fewer tax dollars will be available for road infrastructure.
Electric vehicle owners currently pay a $100 premium on their annual license plate sticker renewal, to offset losses to Illinois Motor Fuel Tax.
Participants in the program would report their mileage to the Illinois Department of Transportation under the pilot program, either via a transponder on their car or by sending a photo of their odometer to IDOT.
Oregon and Utah have already implemented similar programs, and five other states, including Pennsylvania and California, are considering it.
Illinois residents currently pay the second-highest gas tax in the country besides California, at 66 cents per gallon.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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