California Governor Candidates Clash Over Proposed Mileage Tax

The final days of the California gubernatorial campaign have sharpened the dispute over how the state will pay for its deteriorating road system. While taxes and affordability dominate the election, a specific proposal to tax drivers by the miles they travel has emerged as a point of friction between the leading candidates.

Xavier Becerra, the Democratic candidate for governor, indicated he is open to considering a vehicle-miles-traveled tax. In a recent interview with Ashley Zavala of KCRA 3, Becerra stated, "Everything should be on the table." He acknowledged the need to fund infrastructure, noting, "Our roads aren't paid for by some magic wand; we have to pay for it. Do I want to tax people more than necessary? No."

The concept of a mileage-based fee has circulated in the state legislature for years. Democratic Assemblywoman Lori Wilson, who has endorsed Becerra, linked the current discussion to a study bill the legislature enacted in 2014. That bill, known as AB 1421, focused on examining a fee system designed to offset projected declines in gas tax revenue as electric vehicles gain market share.

Steve Hilton, the Republican candidate for governor, opposes the measure strongly. Hilton told FOX 11 that the idea that electric vehicles are creating a revenue crisis is incorrect. He cited that 93 percent of cars and trucks on California roads currently run on gas or diesel. Hilton argued, "93 percent of the cars and trucks on our roads run on gas and diesel, so it's just not correct to say that this is some problem, mileage tax solution right now."

According to plans previously studied by Republican state lawmakers, such a tax could charge drivers between 6 and 9 cents per mile. This structure would translate to approximately $1,000 in new annual taxes for the average driver. Hilton emphasized that the state already imposes the highest gas tax and vehicle registration fees in the country, adding, "it just never ends."

Kate Gordon, CEO of California Forward, noted that the state must eventually address the cost of aging roadways. She pointed out that heavier vehicles cause more wear and tear on roads, suggesting that additional taxes on heavy-duty trucks are also under consideration. Gordon stated that the state will need to be creative in finding new avenues to pay for this infrastructure.

A spokesperson for the Becerra campaign clarified the candidate's position in a statement. The office confirmed that Becerra has not proposed a mileage tax. The statement added that working families already pay their share, while billionaires protected by Hilton would pay their fair share under his leadership.