.
Feedback

Report: Washington Lawmakers Set to Propose 10-Cent Gas-Tax Hike

Rep. Judy Clibborn of Mercer Island told the Associated Press she will introduce the increase Wednesday as part of a larger transportation package.

A group of Democratic state lawmakers plans to unveil a transportation package Wednesday that includes a 10-cent gas-tax increase, the Associated Press reports.

Do you support a gas-tax increase? How do you think the state should fund transportation? Tell us in the comments section.

According to the AP, the effort is being led by Rep. Judy Clibborn (D-Mercer Island), who chairs the House Transportation Committee. Washington's gas tax is currently 37.5 cents per gallon—one of the highest rates in the U.S.

The proposal comes after several King County officials asked the state to implement an eight-cent incease, which they say is needed to maintain the region's roadways and meet a growing demand for public transportation.

As the AP points out, the legislation is likely to receive stiff resistance in the Senate, currently under the control of a GOP coalition that includes majority leader Rodney Tom (D-Bellevue).

State officials have also said they are exploring a pay-by-the-mile transportation tax, but such a plan—if approved—would take several years to implement.

---

Related coverage:

State Explores Pay-by-the-Mile Alternative to Gas Tax

Eight-Cent Gas Tax Hike Proposed by King 

Newsletter & Alerts

Get the best stories each day and important breaking news

Subscribe

Not from Mercer Island Patch? Find your Local Patch »

Loading comments ...
Note Article
Just a short thought to get the word out quickly about anything in your neighborhood.
Share something with your neighbors. Write a new post... What's up? Make an announcement, speak your mind, or sell something
Jerry Gropp Architect AIA May 15, 2013 at 02:07 pm
The Jury is still out. I liked the "Old Patch". J