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March 2005
Oberstar Forum: 'Gas tax plus'
"The Future of Transportation Finance: 'Gas Tax Plus' and Beyond" is the theme of the fourth James L. Oberstar Forum on Transportation Policy and Technology, which will be held April 18 at the Radisson Hotel Metrodome in Minneapolis.
The 2005 forum will explore short- and long-term options for financing the surface transportation system. While the gas tax will most likely remain the centerpiece of transportation finance for many years, states and localities are increasingly supplementing the gas tax with other sources. There are also research efforts and pilot projects underway on alternatives to the gas tax, looking into the future when gasoline is no longer the dominant fuel source for vehicles.
Topics to be discussed at the forum include:
- sources of funding used to supplement the gas tax
- issues regarding financial management, budgeting, and use of revenues
- concerns about cost, technology, privacy, and equity of alternatives
- areas for future research by academic and other research institutions
The forum will feature two panels. In the first, national experts from several organizations will present short-term directions; the second panel will explore future visions for transportation finance and will include Max Donath, director of the ITS Institute, and Lee Munnich of the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs.
Rep. Oberstar will close the event with his thoughts on the implications for Minnesota and the nation.
For more information and the forum brochure, visit the Oberstar Forum page.