So long, abusive driving fees!

Virginia’s General Assembly is working to repeal the much maligned abusive-driving fees, and the Senate unanimously agreed to give refunds to anyone who has paid fees, which range from $750 to $3,000.  The House version of the bill did not address refunds, so the two chambers still need to iron out some differences before the bill can move on to Governor Kaine for his signature.

Unfortunately, neither chamber has found a way to make up for the $65 million that was expected to be generated by the fees for Virginia’s transportation budget.  The shortfall is even more worrisome right now because economic woes and the downturn in the housing market is marring Virginia’s economic outlook.  Some Democrats are calling for an increase in the gas tax, however it is unlikely that Republicans will agree.

How can Virginia make up this shortfall?  One thing is certain, $65 million is a large amount of money to suddenly go missing from the transportation budget.  We hope our lawmakers can find a way to keep the budget balanced, as one thing is for sure – our roads and highways – and our drivers need that money.

Curious what else our lawmakers have been up to in this General Assembly session?  Check out our article here.