Missouri fuel tax increase faces referendum challenge
Missouri Gov. Mike Parson is soon expected to approve the state’s first fuel tax increase in one quarter century. A taxpayers group, however, is looking to throw a wrench into implementation of the increase.
The Missouri General Assembly recently voted to send a bill to the governor’s desk to raise the 17-cent fuel tax rate by 12.5 cents over five years.
Starting Oct. 1, 2021, the tax would be increased by 2.5 cents annually until July 1, 2025. At that time, the tax rate would be increased to 29.5 cents.
Not so fast
Americans for Prosperity in Missouri has filed a petition for referendum with the Secretary of State’s Office to give voters the final say on the tax increase.
Jeremy Cady, Missouri director for the AFP, wants the state to find another way to cover costs to improve transportation infrastructure.
To make that a reality, the group must collect 107,000 signatures by mid-August to qualify for the November 2022 ballot. Meeting the signature requirement would delay implementation of the fuel tax increase until the public vote.
Hancock protection
The referendum focuses on the legality of the legislative action, SB262. At issue is the Hancock Amendment to the Missouri Constitution.
The amendment mandates that any proposed tax rate increase above a certain amount must go before voters.
The fiscally conservative advocacy group says that by phasing in the tax increase SB262 is intended to circumvent the requirement for a public vote.
Bill advocates counter that the legislation ensures that the state meets the Hancock Amendment requirement.
Show me the money
State officials report the state has from $8 billion to $10 billion in unfunded needs for the transportation system.
The additional fuel tax revenue is estimated to raise $455 million annually.
Americans for Prosperity says now is not the right time to make taxpayers pay more money. The group cites the economic difficulties resulting from the pandemic.
Included in SB262 is an option for most Missouri residents to apply for an exemption and refund. The option would be available to residents fueling vehicles with a gross vehicle weight not exceeding 26,000 pounds.
Alternative fuel vehicles
Owners of alternative fuel vehicles also would contribute more. The fees for decals would be increased by 20% annually for five years.
Fees for electric and hybrid vehicles weighing in excess of 36,000 pounds would see a 10% annual increase over the same time period. LL