Washington state legislatures are discussing a new budget proposal that could raise the price you pay at the gas pump.
The proposed tax hikes are part of the larger transportation budget. The Senate is discussing a proposed increased tax of $0.06 per gallon, while the House is considering a proposed increase of $0.09 per gallon.
The idea is that the proposed increases would bring in more money for different transportation projects across Washington that are in jeopardy due to a billion-dollar budget gap.
The tax increase would fund small projects like filling potholes, and larger projects like Spokane’s North-South Corridor.
“We know that too many Washington families are paying the ultimate cost in preventable and avoidable tragedies that we read about in the news every week,” said Senator Marko Liias. “We know that if we suspend and delay projects like we would be forced to, that hard-working Washington families would pay the cost.”
Those against the bill say it is not the time to raise the cost of living in Washington.
The bill passed the Senate on Saturday. The House is scheduled to vote on their transportation budget this week. From there, both chambers will have to come to an agreement on a final spending plan with Governor Bob Ferguson.
Ferguson said he wants to look at all cuts that could be made before resorting to new taxes.
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