The amendment question, dubbed the "lockbox" amendment, addresses the state government practice of spending earmarked transportation revenue for other purposes.
On Nov. 8, Illinois voters will determine whether to amend the state constitution to ensure money intended for transportation projects is spent on that.
The amendment question, dubbed the “lockbox” amendment, addresses the state government practice of spending earmarked transportation revenue for other purposes. Money for transportation projects comes from license fees, vehicle registration costs, gas taxes and road tolls.
Benjamin Brockschmidt, policy vice president for the Illinois Chamber of Commerce Infrastructure Council, said $6.8 billion of earmarked state funds was not spent on transportation. The proposal was approved for the ballot through bipartisan support of the General Assembly, which was sought by a broad transportation coalition that included the Illinois Chamber, organized labor groups, and road planning and construction groups.
“Illinois Farm Bureau policy has long supported motor fuel tax funds to be used for construction and maintenance of roads, streets and bridges only,” said Kevin Semlow, IFB director of state legislation. “We fully support the ‘lockbox’ constitutional amendment.”
State funds intended for transportation projects regularly are taken for other government purposes.
Brockschmidt highlighted bridge soundness and the need for regular infrastructure investments. About 93 percent of bridges statewide rate “acceptable” condition. If bridges aren’t regularly maintained and repaired, the acceptable percent will decrease to 85 percent, according to Brockschmidt.
"That (lack of upkeep) adds to the cost of transportation, and adds to the wear and tear on other bridges” as motorists seek alternative routes, he noted.
In rural areas, bridges with lower weight restrictions or closed ones can add miles and cost to transport crops and livestock to market.
Brockschmidt said questions have surfaced about which funds will be put in the lockbox and which won’t. “The spirit and goal is to protect transportation funding,” he said.
If voters approve the amendment, legislation will be needed to clarify implementation of the new requirement, Brockschmidt said.
In Brockschmidt’s view the proposed amendment’s fate may impact more than roads and bridges given Illinois’ dire financial situation. If the amendment fails to pass, legislators across the state will view any special funds as available for other expenses, he said. “If we don’t pass this, things can get worse,” Brockschmidt concluded.
Semlow added, “On Nov. 8, we encourage everyone to go to the end of the ballot and vote yes on the ‘lockbox’ amendment.”
For more information about the proposed amendment, visit {saferoadsamendment.com}
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