Thomas Warren, wtop.com
WASHINGTON – In an effort to raise revenues, and plug the $1 billion plus budget shortfall, one Virginia state delegate is proposing a move that hasn’t been made in 26 years.
Scott Surovell, D-44th District would like to raise the state’s gas tax, which currently sits at 17.5 cents.
“Cars are getting more efficient, and we’re not collecting as much gas taxes anymore. We need to look at those kinds of options,” Surovell says.
The 2012 budget calls for $67 billion in transportation funding.
Surovell says money is needed in the area for, what he calls, much needed road repairs.
“The rural part of the state actually needs road maintenance. They do not need construction, but they do need maintenance,” Surovell says.
He’s admits there is not much confidence in the legislature making progress on the tax from, gas or otherwise.
“The governor has flat out said he’s not going to support any kind of tax increase at all,” Surovell says.
The General Assembly will hold its first session of the new year Wednesday in Richmond.
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