The Obama Administration has already signaled its opposition to a VMT based tax. Shortly after his confirmation in February, Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood? mentioned the possibility of shifting to a VMT based tax and press secretary Robert Gibbs rejected the idea, provoking a response from Oberstar that transportation policy will be written by Congress, not the White House press office.

In February, the National Surface Transportation Infrastructure Financing Commission recommended transitioning to a VMT based tax by 2020. Oberstar called on Highways and Transit Subcommittee Chairman Peter DeFazio? (D-OR) to meet with transportation experts to explore the question further.

At a separate House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Hearing this week, Secretary LaHood? stated that while it is clear the HTF will need to be overhauled or replaced as a funding mechanism, we need to continue to use it. "We are watching it closely and will be able to provide better guidance by mid-summer," LaHood? said while also reiterating the administration's opposition to increasing the gas tax during a recession.

Meanwhile, Oberstar and other Congressional transportation leaders announced Thursday they have agreed on a basic framework for a surface transportation authorization bill. Details will be forthcoming, but Oberstar remains committed to his previously stated goal of having a bill on the House floor in June.

For coverage of the hearings, visit the Committee's website at http://transportation.house.gov/