U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer outlined on March 26 his proposals to address the funding gap in the Highway Trust Fund, highlighting concerns over its long-term solvency and the importance of maintaining a “user pays” model. In an opinion piece published by The Washington Times, Cramer said expenditures from the fund have exceeded revenues for more than 25 years, with $57 billion spent but only $43 billion collected in 2024.
The debate over how to finance America’s roads and highways is important because it affects both economic activity and infrastructure quality across the country. Cramer wrote that continued reliance on transfers from the Treasury General Fund—totaling $275 billion over 15 years—shifts costs to all taxpayers instead of just road users.
Cramer suggested that all vehicles using highways should contribute financially, noting that as more Americans switch to electric vehicles (EVs), fewer dollars are generated through traditional gas taxes. He cited data from Argonne National Laboratory showing about 1.2 million battery electric vehicles were purchased in 2024, mostly in California, which he said creates a disparity: “a Fargo mom taking her kids to hockey practice in a Suburban is paying into the highway system while coastal elites who can afford EVs are getting a free ride from the federal government down Sunset Boulevard.” He proposed implementing a federal registration fee for EVs dedicated to the Highway Trust Fund as one solution, noting that most states already have such fees.
Other policy options discussed by Cramer include supplementing or replacing fuel taxes with annual registration fees based on vehicle weight. He acknowledged privacy concerns with per-mile tracking systems but emphasized that doing nothing is not an option: “We have become way too familiar with robbing Peter to pay Paul in Washington, and it’s time to put Highway Trust Fund bailouts in the rearview mirror.”
Cramer’s background includes serving three terms as North Dakota’s at-large representative before joining the Senate according to his official website. He grew up in Kindred, North Dakota; earned degrees from Concordia College and University of Mary; serves on several Senate committees including Environment and Public Works; and assists constituents with federal agencies according to his official website.
Reflecting on next steps for Congress as they negotiate surface transportation reauthorization this year, Cramer concluded: “Our ability to repair, update, and build out new roads depends on a sustainable ‘user pays’ system.” The senator’s focus remains on ensuring investments across the National Highway System continue supporting economic growth.
