Politics & Government
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.
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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.
Find out what's happening in Mercer Islandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
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).
Find out what's happening in Mercer Islandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
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.
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Related coverage:
State Explores Pay-by-the-Mile Alternative to Gas Tax
Eight-Cent Gas Tax Hike Proposed by King
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