Panel Considering Large Gas Tax Increase

A task force is recommending an increased gas tax to provide funding for roads and bridges. Governor John Bel Edwards appointed the panel and has charged them with finding a way to bring in $700 million per year.

DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson says "That is what we need to fix what we need to fix, and achieve what we need to achieve."

The panel should wrap up its work and make recommendations by December 13th.

The state gasoline tax, which is sure to be a big part of any funding plan, would have to be increased by about 23 cents per gallon to come up with $700 million in new dollars per year.

It’s been almost 29 years since the state has adjusted the gas tax, and Wilson says it’s lost almost 50% of its value.

Which states have the highest taxes on gas? The Tax Foundation keeps track of the numbers.

Pennsylvania has the highest rate of 51.60 cents per gallon  and is followed closely by New York, Hawaii, and California.