Fuel Efficient Vehicles In New Hampshire Could See Huge Road Tax

You think you're doing your part for the environment, and your wallet, by driving a fuel efficient vehicle. If lawmakers have their way, there will be a price for that choice.

Gas prices are on the rise, but that's not enough to cover highway and bridge maintenance, according to state Rep. Norman Major, R-Plaistow, chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee. He has proposed a "road usage fee."

According to the Union Leader, Major has proposed legislation HB 1763.  This would toss a fee annually on vehicles that get better gas mileage. In theory, the hybrid and electric cars which do not pay as much in gas taxes, would contribute with the road usage fee.

Vehicle owners would pay a maximum of $111 yearly, with credits applied as fuel usage increases. If a vehicle averages 20 miles per gallon, there would be no tax. Have an electric car? That's going to run you the full $111.

According to the article, Major says the EPA database on mileage estimates could be blended with the state vehicle registration system to administer the charge.