Should Michigan replace the gas tax with a road usage charge?
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The Michigan Department of Transportation wants to know how you would feel about replacing the state gas tax with a road usage charge.
On Tuesday, MDOT, in partnership with Via Transportation, Inc., launched an online survey to gauge how Michigan residents would feel about potential alternatives to the state gas tax.
“While no changes like this are being debated by the Legislature at this time, the statewide survey is the first step in exploring new ways to sustainably and fairly fund and maintain public transit systems, roads, bridges, and other crucial transportation infrastructure in Michigan,” MDOT said Tuesday in a release.
A road usage charge means that you would pay a few cents for each mile you drive, according to MDOT.
The department says this might be fairer than a gas tax for drivers who can’t afford to buy more fuel-efficient cars. And as cars become more fuel-efficient and shift toward alternative fuels, a road usage charge will make sure the state has enough money to maintain the roads, according to MDOT.
The online survey is open to Michigan residents ages 18 and older. In exchange for completing the survey, you will receive a $10 gift card via email. The project is funded by a federal grant.
If you take the survey, MDOT says you may also be invited to join a pilot demonstration during the fall. By participating in the pilot, you could earn incentives valued between $75 and $500, according to the department.
The survey closes March 1.
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