Analysis of Multijurisdictional Approaches (13)
Description:
Eventually, RUC must be interoperable between states and therefore will require a multijurisdictional approach to implementation. Because no such system is yet in place, this building block aims to identify many of the key factors that may be considered in the future. Solutions will vary based on the configuration of adjacent RUC systems and the desire for agencies to coordinate.
Details:
There are expected to be many ways of achieving interoperability. For vehicles that report mileage using location-based methods, funds could be transferred directly to states in which miles are driven. Doing so may require establishing a RUC clearinghouse or an interoperability hub. These agreements could start between two states, expand to further states, and eventually cover a region or even the whole country.
For vehicles that use non-location-based methods, neighboring RUC states could reach agreements on how to exchange funds for miles driven and fuel tax credits made. These states could exchange funds based on data extrapolations from vehicles using location-based methods or other sources detailing the average miles driven in other states. For example, because vehicles using location-based methods from State A drove an average of 500 miles in State B, it can be assumed that all vehicles from State A using non-location-based methods drove this amount as well. Extrapolations could be made in regions smaller than the state level; for example, vehicles registered in a given region or zip code could be grouped and assigned a given average number of miles.
For heavy-duty vehicles that travel interstate, the International Fuel Tax Agreement and the International Registration Plan provide models for interoperability. Although neither the International Fuel Tax Agreement nor the International Registration Plan are established for RUC, their processes can be adapted and used as templates for all types of vehicles.
To cover out-of-state vehicles from states that do not have RUC, it is likely wise to keep fuel taxes in place for the near term.
Primary Uses:
Determine RUC interoperability approach on a regional and, eventually, national level. Determine how to handle out-of-state vehicles from states that do not have RUC.
Best Practices/Lessons Learned:
- Set up interoperability clearinghouses between two states or in a small regional group first, then allow them to grow.
- Neighboring states can extrapolate data from vehicles that provide location, and the states can use other data sources to determine average miles traveled for non-location-based vehicles. After determining cross-state travel behavior, the states could then agree to exchange funds based on such extrapolations.
State Government Context and Assumptions:
The task force, if one exists, works in conjunction with the lead RUC agency on this task. This task begins when the state is ready to talk about RUC with other states. This task does not need to take place especially early in the process, but it is desirable for this to occur at a high level, before any legislation is passed.