Arizona Voters Face Crucial Decision on Proposed Vehicle Miles Traveled Tax Ban

By Jonathan Eberle |

Arizona voters will have a significant decision to make in November 2026 regarding a proposed constitutional amendment. This amendment aims to prohibit state and local governments from imposing taxes based on the number of miles driven and from imposing limits on individual vehicle mileage.

If approved, Arizona would become the first state in the nation to constitutionally ban vehicle miles traveled (VMT) taxes and related restrictions. VMT taxes, often termed mileage-based user fees, levy charges on drivers for using public roads. Proponents argue this approach offers a fairer alternative to traditional gas taxes as electric vehicles become more prevalent. However, opponents express concerns about privacy, government overreach, and the potential negative impacts on rural and suburban drivers.

Currently, 24 states are involved in testing or have implemented VMT programs, according to the Tax Foundation. Most of these programs are voluntary and primarily target electric or hybrid vehicles. Only Hawaii has introduced a mandatory VMT program, set to roll out incrementally, starting with electric vehicles by 2028.

Supporters of the amendment view it as a proactive measure to safeguard driver autonomy and combat what they perceive as increasing government intrusion into personal transportation. “Governments left unchecked will attempt to track, tax, or limit citizens’ transportation miles,” stated Scot Mussi, president of the Arizona Free Enterprise Club. “We are excited that our Republican-majority legislature has empowered voters to protect their freedom to travel by personal vehicle.”

This amendment, known as SCR 1004, marks the legislature’s second attempt at passing such a measure. A prior proposal, House Concurrent Resolution 2018, passed the House in 2024 but fell short in the Senate due to a tie. Notably, Arizona law allows constitutional amendments approved by the legislature to appear on the ballot without needing the governor’s signature.

SCR 1004 is the first officially certified measure for the 2026 ballot. Lawmakers are still deliberating on 20 other proposals, including eight constitutional amendments and twelve referred statutes, that could also be presented to voters. If SCR 1004 passes, Arizona would set a major precedent by incorporating a ban on VMT taxes and mileage limitations into its constitution, potentially influencing the broader national transportation policy landscape.

Jonathan Eberle is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.