One issue that I’ve been receiving feedback on is our aging infrastructure system and finding the resources needed to improve it. Over the past few years, I have been gathering thoughts on all sides of this issue. It is clear through these conversations that Iowans deserve and expect our roads to be safe for travel. Quality and reliable roads and bridges are also key to Iowa’s economic growth and prosperity.
Our public roadway system is comprised of over 114,000 miles with approximately 25,000 bridges. Nationally, Iowa ranks fifth in the number of bridges and 13th in miles of roadway. We are fortunate to have an extensive roadway system throughout the state, which allows us to maintain an efficient flow of commerce; however, maintaining this infrastructure is expensive. The Iowa Department of Transportation has estimated there is a $215 million annual shortfall needed to improve our roads and bridges that are considered to be in critical condition. Over the past several years, we have asked everyone to find efficiencies and savings where we can. This has proven to be effective as millions of dollars have been refocused into improving our roads.
The evidence is clear that additional funding is still needed to improve our state’s infrastructure. Many counties across Iowa have turned to bonding to pay for this need. We have heard loud and clear from you that our infrastructure needs should not be paid for through property taxes. In some cases, the length of time to repay the debt incurred through bonding, outlives the life of the project. For example, a 20-year bond obligation could be used to pay for a resurfacing project that’s expected to last ten years. This is unacceptable.
The majority of the feedback we’ve received from Iowans demonstrates an increased fuel tax, which will require out-of-state drivers to contribute to our roadway needs as well, is the preferred mechanism for generating the revenue. As a result of this feedback, leadership from all four caucuses, the Governor, and the Chairs and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Transportation Committees worked together to find consensus on legislation to reflect this desire.
HF 351/SF 257 will increase Iowa’s motor fuel tax by 10 cents per gallon. The revenue generated from this increased user fee will be deposited directly into the Road Use Tax Fund (RUTF). This fund is constitutionally-protected, meaning that approximately 95% of the revenue in the fund is spent only on roads and bridges. HF 351/SF 257 provides an ongoing, sustainable funding mechanism to meet the needs of our aging roads and bridges.
We will continue to hold all levels of government accountable for how the money is spent. At the same time, state and local governments will continue to seek increased savings and efficiencies. We expect the Iowa Department of Transportation, counties, and cities to spend all taxpayer dollars wisely. Thank you for all of your feedback over the past several months. The insight and perspective you have provided is greatly appreciated.
My legislative forums have begun. The Butler County REC and Farm Bureau are sponsoring a forum at the AmVets Building in Allison on Friday, February 27 at 10:00 am. I will be at Center One in Hampton later that afternoon for the Franklin County Development Legislative Forum at 1:00.
I see Upmeyer still doesn’t believe that cannabis oil for those who suffer from diseases that cause great pain, suffering and discomfort is necessary. She says she must study it more to make an informed decision. B.S. She was a nurse. She can read. She can listen but she chooses not to because her governor buddy says not to.
@bodacious-It must really tear you up that someone believe is science instead of emotion. It has not been proven by science that this dope really works. Every single day they are finding other things use of pot does to destroy people brains and body’s. You should know, look what it did to you.
Do you even know what cannabis oil is? It is used for treating epilepsy for one in infants. I have friends who have a baby who for the first 16 months of her life lived in pain. Seizures occurred hourly, sometimes 5-6 times an hour. Cannabis oil stopped it. No other drug did. Now, at 2 1/2 years, the seizures come 1 or 2 times a month. That might not look like science to you, but it produces results. There are hundreds of stories just like this-documented-research it old man.