1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

I am writing to you today as a constituent to express my strong opposition to recent proposals—specifically those from the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee—that seek to impose a flat annual fee of $200 to $250 on electric vehicles (EVs). While I agree that all drivers should contribute to the maintenance of our nation’s infrastructure, these specific proposals are inequitable, punitive, and counterproductive to our national energy and environmental goals. As highlighted in recent reports, the proposed $200-$250 federal EV fee is fundamentally unfair when compared to what the average internal combustion engine (ICE) driver contributes. Currently, the average gas-car driver pays approximately $95 per year in federal fuel taxes. Charging EV owners more than double that amount—the equivalent of driving over 100,000 miles in a gas-powered vehicle—is not "paying a fair share"; it is a targeted penalty on innovation. Furthermore, I am concerned that these fees: Lack Scalability: Unlike the gas tax, a flat fee punishes low-mileage drivers. A constituent who drives 3,000 miles a year would pay the same as a commercial driver covering 30,000 miles, which is inherently regressive. Stifle National Progress: At a time when the U.S. is falling behind global competitors in EV adoption, and following the recent expiration of the federal EV tax credit, adding new financial barriers will further slow the transition to cleaner transportation. Undermine Public Health and Security: EV adoption is estimated to provide up to $188 billion in health benefits by 2050 by reducing air pollution. Moreover, transitioning away from oil is a matter of national energy security. These fees reward oil dependence by making the alternative artificially expensive. If the goal is truly to find a sustainable way to fund the Highway Trust Fund, I urge you to consider fairer, usage-based alternatives—such as the per-mile charging models successfully piloted in states like Oregon. A per-mile fee ensures that all vehicles pay for the actual wear and tear they cause to the roads, regardless of their fuel source. I ask that you vote against any proposal that singles out EV owners with disproportionate flat fees and instead support comprehensive, fair infrastructure funding that encourages, rather than punishes, the shift toward a cleaner and more secure energy future. Thank you for your time and for considering the views of your constituents on this important matter. Sincerely,