What happened: After days of debate and procedural wrangling, Congress passed a package of tax measures and border security and defense spending known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” Major action came July 1, when the Senate approved its version of the package, which largely tracked text released by the Senate Finance Committee last month. The House July 3 passed the bill as approved by the Senate, sending it to President Donald Trump, who is expected to sign it into law July 4.

The bill ultimately did not include House-passed language that would have imposed an annual user fee on all electric and hybrid vehicles, with the resources dedicated to the Highway Trust Fund, due to procedural Senate rules governing the legislation.

Why it matters: While exclusion of the electric and hybrid vehicle fees is disappointing, the overwhelming support seen for them among most GOP members of Congress is encouraging. It marks the largest demonstration of support for an “all highway users pay model” since the dialogue on alternative fuel vehicles began nearly two decades ago.

What’s next: ARTBA will continue advocating for user-fee revenue solutions to be included in any future tax bill and/or the reauthorization of surface transportation programs due in 2026.

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