Elam: New user fees pave the only road to healthy highways
New user fees are critical to highway infrastructure, writes NAPA Vice President for Government Affairs Nile Elam in his latest Op-Ed for the Washington Times.
“The reality of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) is that its revenue sources, the gas and diesel fuel taxes, have not changed since 1993 when a dozen eggs cost less than a buck and the average American home sold for less than $150,000,” Elam said in his piece. “A trip to the supermarket or a tour of local real estate reveals those days are long gone. Still, the HTF remains stuck in the past.”
NAPA Director for Government Affairs Mitch Baldwin said asphalt mix plant tours have played a major role in educating many in Congress about the best interests of the nation’s highways.
“NAPA’s Government Affairs Team has been working diligently—often behind the scenes—to help shape the conversation around the upcoming highway reauthorization,” Baldwin said. “A key part of this effort involves active engagement on and off Capitol Hill with staff from the two primary authorizing committees: the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee. One of the most effective ways we’ve built understanding and support is by bringing Members of Congress to asphalt plants across the country. These site visits provide a firsthand look at our industry in action, allowing legislators to meet the people behind the work, see the product we produce, and understand how our operations contribute to local economies and national infrastructure. Last year, NAPA helped coordinate nearly 20 plant tours, and our goal for this year is even more ambitious: 30 tours.”
“In tandem with these direct engagements, the continued growth of the NAPA PAC strengthens our ability to support candidates who understand the importance of our industry and are committed to its success. As we approach critical highway funding negotiations, maintaining and expanding that support is more important than ever. Asphalt producers must have a seat at the table to ensure our priorities are reflected in future legislation.” – NAPA Director for Government Affairs Mitch Baldwin
The August recess is a great time to host your Member of Congress at your plant or jobsite.
Interested? NAPA’s Government Affairs team can help!
NAPA has the resources to support your efforts to build strong relationships with your elected officials while also creating policy champions that will help safeguard the longevity of the asphalt pavement industry.
Email Vice President for Government Affairs Nile Elam or Government Affairs Director Mitch Baldwin to learn more.