SCS/SJR 44- This resolution eliminates non-highway agencies from receiving highway revenues over a five-year period. The Department of Transportation and the highway patrol are exempt from the diversion. Costs incurred by the Office of Administration on behalf of employees of the department of transportation and highway patrol may be paid from highway revenues. This will begin July 1, 2005, provided that the voters approve this resolution in November 2004.

REDIRECTION OF ONE HALF OF MOTOR VEHICLE SALES TAX - This resolution directs all of the proceeds from the tax on motor vehicles, trailers, boats, and outboard motors which currently goes to the General Revenue Fund to the state road fund over a ten-year period. This redirection will be phased in over a ten-year period beginning the first fiscal year following the adoption of this resolution. This will begin July 1, 2009, provided that the voters approve this resolution in November 2004. This portion of the resolution is similar to SJR 17 (2003).

HIGHWAY PATROL SAFETY FUND - This act creates a highway patrol safety fund and authorizes two separate funding sources to fund it. Beginning July 1, 2005, provided the voters approve this resolution in November 2004, 5% of any increase in motor vehicle registration fees shall be credited to the state Highway Patrol Safety fund. The fund shall also receive a separate motor vehicle registration fee or surcharge dedicated to the state Highway Patrol Safety fund unencumbered by the funding allocation formula of the constitution. The funds in the highway Patrol Safety fund shall be exhausted prior to making any appropriation from the State Highways and Transportation Department Fund.
STEPHEN WITTE