Rob Coppersmith, executive vice president of the Michigan Infrastructure & Transportation Association (MITA), issued the following statement following the introduction of the House Republicans’ road funding legislation, House Bills 4180-4187:
“As Michigan approaches the road funding cliff this year, significant progress is being made toward a long-term funding plan for Michigan’s transportation infrastructure. The eight-bill package introduced by House Republicans would utilize existing state funds to generate critical funding for roads and bridges, bolstering Michigan’s transportation budget while protecting thousands of construction jobs that could be lost if action is not taken soon.
“A key component of the House Republicans’ proposal tackles one of the most pressing policy issues in transportation funding — the sales tax on motor fuel. Michigan is one of only five states that levies a sales tax on gas but allocates virtually none of it toward road repairs. For decades, we have advocated for removing this tax and replacing it with an equivalent increase in the state’s excise tax on fuel, ensuring that all taxes paid at the pump are directed toward transportation needs without impacting education funding.
“We’re pleased that the proposals put forward by Gov. Whitmer and House Republicans both share a commitment to ensuring that all fuel taxes go toward fixing our roads and bridges and that both propose using at least $500 million in existing state revenues. This common ground marks a strong starting point for legislative negotiations.
“While there is still a long road ahead, the momentum behind addressing Michigan’s infrastructure needs is undeniable. Michigan has kicked the can down the road for far too long. We urge all sides in Lansing to come together quickly to pass a plan that saves thousands of jobs while ensuring our roads and bridges are safe and reliable for future generations.”