Implement a Stable Funding Stream to Support Public Transportation (TLU Action 2.B.2.c)

Identify and implement a stable funding stream to support significant expansion of public transportation in New Hampshire. Public transportation is essential to establishing a balanced, less carbon-intensive transportation system within the state. Public transportation also complements, promotes, and supports low-greenhouse-gas-impact development. However, the current lack of adequate funding is a major impediment to the expansion and operation of public transportation. A dedicated funding stream to support this purpose could be established by implementing or enabling one or more of several possible funding mechanisms. Options include an increase in the state gasoline tax, local gasoline taxes dedicated to public transportation, increases in vehicle registration fees, and revenues from a statewide feebate program or a carbon fuel surcharge. Any of these actions would require legislative action. An amendment to Article 6-a of the New Hampshire Constitution would be required to remove current restrictions on the use of gas tax revenues for public transportation.