DES MOINES — A legislative panel generally supports a supplemental registration fee on electric vehicles to offset the impact of lower gas tax revenue.

However, the five-member House Transportation Subcommittee made no decision on the amount or whether to phase it in over three to five years.

They don’t want to discourage the production or use of electric vehicles, but lawmakers see a need to protect the Road Use Tax Fund that, in large part, pays for construction and maintenance of Iowa roads.

“We’re just trying to keep the (Road Use Tax Fund) whole,” said Scott Newhard of the Associated General Contractors, which includes roadbuilders. “Electric vehicles use the road, too.”

Read the full article on the Cedar Rapids Gazette website.