TN Newspaper Backs Mileage Tax, Tolls, or Fees on “Heavier Trucks” to Fund Transportation

The Tennessean editorial board urges lawmakers to tackle the issue of long-term transportation funding, writing, “However, there are numerous options the state could and should explore. Why not look at a financing structure that puts the burden on the drivers who use the roads the most? A mileage tax or tolls or a fee on heavier vehicles could address that.” (Governor Bill Haslam has called a special session of the legislature to prevent the loss of $60 million in federal funds due to a state law that does not conform to the national blood-alcohol level standard.)