Arkansas Trucking Association praises the 27 state senators and 71 representatives who have voted over the past two weeks in support of legislation that will generate an additional $95 million annually for highways. A success years in the making, the funding is part of Governor Asa Hutchinson’s proposed plan to bring in an additional $417 million total annually for infrastructure, with $300 million of that going to the Arkansas Department of Transportation.
“This is a victory for everyone who relies on Arkansas highways, rural roads, city streets and bridges,” said Arkansas Trucking Association President Shannon Newton. “It prioritizes safety and the efficient movement of commerce throughout the state. We are grateful to the lawmakers who voted in support of funding our state’s infrastructure.”
Arkansas has the 12th largest highway system in the nation, but ranks 43rd in spending on roads and bridges. To support increased infrastructure costs, ATA has long advocated for raising the fuel tax, which has not been increased in more than 20 years. Senate Bill 336 will generate new revenue from multiple sources including increases to wholesale diesel and gasoline taxes to 3 cents per gallon of gasoline and 6 cents per gallon of diesel. SB336 will also create a new registration fee for electric and hybrid vehicles and will guarantee at least $35 million from general funds and casino taxes to infrastructure needs.
In a 67-30 vote, the Arkansas House of Representatives also passed House Joint Resolution 1018 on Monday which will allow voters to choose an extension to the half-cent sales tax for state highways, bridges, county roads and other surface transportation. The Senate will take up the resolution on Thursday.
The Association extends its appreciation to state representatives and senators for recognizing and acting on the incredible need for this funding.
