Road Funding Bill Passes Senate
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Indiana Senate has passed its version of the long-term road funding plan which continues to be a major focus of the legislative session. Senate President Pro Tem David Long (R-16) calls the passage of House Bill 1002 an "important step" for Indiana.
Long says more work must be done before HB 1002, which passed the Senate by a 34-13 vote, is sent to the desk of Governor Eric Holcomb. A conference committee will get together to iron out the differences between the House and Senate versions of the bill.
Both versions of the bill include a 10-cent increase in the state’s gasoline tax as well as a $15 increase in vehicle registration fees and new fees on electric vehicles. Our partners at WIBC-FM cite the most notable difference between the two is the House version’s proposal to earmark gasoline sales taxes for roads and a cigarette tax increase filling the gap that would be created in the state’s budget.
"Taking care of our transportation infrastructure supports our growing economy and positions us to maintain our reputation as the Crossroads of America. It also means improved safety and less traffic congestion for everyday Hoosier drivers," said Long. "This legislation is the result of a comprehensive bipartisan study involving members of the public, a variety of state and local leaders, and many industry experts and stakeholders. It is in the long-term interest of our state and I’m pleased to see it pass the Senate."
All but six Indiana Republicans voted in favor the Senate version of the bill, with two Democrats supporting it as well.