Asm. Wilson vows to work with cities on an alternative transportation funding framework

By Damon Conklin, legislative advocate (transportation)

Asm. Lori Wilson, chair of the Assembly Transportation Committee, recently led a discussion on one of the state’s most significant long-term challenges: the decline of transportation revenues. As more Californians transition to zero-emission vehicles, fewer drivers contribute to transportation funding through fuel taxes. This is making it increasingly harder for public agencies to maintain state and local roads.

The conversation was part of Cal Cities' recent Transportation, Communications and Public Works Policy Committee meeting. City officials steer Cal Cities’ advocacy efforts and engage directly with policy experts through the seven committees.

Wilson acknowledged the mounting fiscal pressures facing cities, including rising labor costs, escalating construction material prices, and inflationary impacts. These challenges come as local governments face significant pavement maintenance backlogs and growing demands on limited transportation revenues.

Wilson also discussed AB 1421, her proposal to study alternative transportation funding frameworks capable of providing a sustainable, long-term revenue source as gas tax revenues decline. While the bill will not move forward this year, she emphasized that the issue remains urgent and pledged to work with Cal Cities and other stakeholders to advance discussions next year. Cal Cities supported the measure.

Local governments own and maintain the vast majority of California’s transportation network. Without a sustainable replacement for declining fuel tax revenues, maintaining this infrastructure will become increasingly difficult.

Asm. Wilson’s discussion with city officials underscored the value of Cal Cities’ policy committees as forums where city leaders and top policymakers can work together on complex statewide challenges. Cal Cities looks forward to working with Wilson and other stakeholders to develop a transportation funding framework that is sustainable, equitable, and capable of supporting California’s transportation system for generations to come.