California Constitution Article XIX B - Motor Vehicle Fuel Sales Tax Revenues and Transportation Improvement Funding [Sections 1 - 2]
Here is a summary and explanation of California Constitution – Article XIX B, titled:
🔧 Article XIX B – Motor Vehicle Fuel Sales Tax Revenues and Transportation Improvement Funding
[Sections 1 – 2]
(Added by voter initiative: Proposition 42, March 2002)
🔹 Purpose:
This article ensures that revenues from the state sales tax on motor vehicle fuel are used exclusively for transportation-related purposes, such as road improvements, public transit, and safety programs.
### 📘 Section 1 – Use of Revenues
Summary:
Beginning July 1, 2003, all state sales tax revenues derived from motor vehicle fuel sales (like gasoline) must be used only for transportation purposes.
🚧 Specifically Allowed Uses:
Public street and highway improvements.
Construction and maintenance of roads.
Public transit systems (buses, rail, etc.).
Safety and environmental mitigation related to transportation.
🔒 Prohibition:
These funds cannot be used for general government purposes or non-transportation programs.
### 📘 Section 2 – Temporary Suspension in Fiscal Emergency
Summary:
The Legislature may suspend the transfer of motor fuel sales tax revenue to transportation if:
Governor declares a fiscal emergency, and
Two-thirds of both houses of the Legislature approve the suspension.
🕓 Limits on Suspension:
Suspension is allowed only for one fiscal year at a time.
The suspended amount becomes a debt that must be repaid to transportation funds.
✅ Impact of Article XIX B:
Meant to lock in transportation funding, protecting it from being diverted during budget crises.
A reaction to years of fuel tax revenues being used to balance the state’s general budget.
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