Missouri lawmakers consider gas tax increase

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri lawmakers are considering a gas tax increase as a step toward eliminating a projected funding shortfall that officials warn could result in the deterioration of many roads and bridges.

Senators on Tuesday debated a 2-cent increase on the current 17-cent fuel tax, which would bring in about $55 million for the transportation department.

That would allow the state to match all of its expected federal funds in 2017. But the increase would not be enough to match all federal funds in 2018.

Republican Sen. Doug Libla, of Poplar Bluff, is sponsoring the Senate bill. He says a gas tax is the best way to fund transportation.

Missouri voters last year rejected a proposed three-quarter cent sales tax to fund transportation.

This story was originally published April 14, 2015 at 1:56 PM with the headline "Missouri lawmakers consider gas tax increase."