USING TECHNOLOGY TO MAXIMIZE EQUITY IN MILEAGE-BASED USER FEES: BENEFITS AND RISKS

摘要

There are many challenges facing agencies interested in assessing mileage-based user fees as arevenue source. Determining an appropriate fee structure and determining a mechanism bywhich to assess fees are some of the more significant issues. The use of technology to assessmileage-based user fees (rather than assessment of fees via a manual odometer reading) makes itpossible to introduce factors into the fee structure beyond fuel efficiency or vehicle type. Factorscan include location (e.g., inside versus outside a defined metropolitan area), time of day, androadway type, among others. Inclusion of factors such as these can support traffic managementefforts such as congestion pricing but may also have unintended consequences on driverbehavior and can negatively impact public acceptance. Designing an appropriate fee structurerequires consideration of what the State believes is equitable and what is perceived by the publicto be equitable. As additional factors are considered, it becomes even more critical to fullyunderstand the public’s perceptions of equity. The Minnesota Department of Transportation isconducting a pilot investigation, the Minnesota Road Fee Test, to test the use of an in-vehicledevice to assess mileage-based user fees. The test begins in September of 2011, and this paperreports on initial observations regarding technology and equity. Keywords: mileage-based userfee, gas tax, revenue, in-vehicle technology, probes, safety warnings, navigation system, ITS,connected vehicles, CICAS, equity.