Over 84,000 drivers could face new pay-per-mile fee

Oregonians could soon be joining Hawaiians as the only Americans subject to mandatory pay-per-mile fees for electric vehicles (EV).

Lawmakers were in session Friday as the state looks to fill a $300 million void in the transportation budget that threatens funds for road repairs and snowplowing.

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek (D) proposed an EV road usage charge that is equivalent to 5 percent of the state’s gas tax. It also includes raising the gas tax by 6 cents to 46 cents per gallon, among other fee increases.

The usage charge would phase in starting in 2027 for certain EVs and expand to include hybrids in 2028. Should the gas tax increase be approved, EV drivers would either pay about 2.3 cents per mile or choose an annual flat fee of $340. Drivers in the program wouldn’t have to pay supplemental registration fees.

Hawaii’s road usage charge

Hawaii introduced its mandated road usage charge initiative in 2023 as a means for replacing the projected void of fuel tax revenue as more fuel-efficient, hybrid and electric cars continue to become more commonplace.

Hawaiians can pay a $50 annual fee, or $8 per 1,000 miles, capped at $50.

Through 2028, all electric vehicle drivers in the Aloha State are required to enroll in the program and have their odometers read annually at inspections. It is expected that by 2033, all light-duty vehicles will be included.

Oregon, along with Utah and Vermont, has voluntary programs currently in place.