As Connecticut lawmakers evaluate a proposal from Gov. Dannel Malloy (D) to create a transportation fund ‘lockbox’, a governor-appointed panel told the General Assembly’s transportation committee on March 9 that taxpayers are unlikely to support new revenue without assurance that it would be safeguarded from diversions. Panel Chairman Cameron Staples pointed out that without new revenue- which could be considered during the 2017 legislative session- Gov. Malloy’s transportation plan would not be possible. Read More.
Massachusetts transportation advocates are proposing a 2018 ballot question to impose an additional 4 percent tax on personal income over $1 million, to be divided between state transportation and education funds. Read More.
Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton (DFL) called on lawmakers to find a solution to the state’s transportation funding shortfall during his State of the State address on March 9. Read More. (Read his speech.)
A new poll released Feb. 29 shows Mississippi voters would support a gas tax increase if it was dedicated to funding roads and bridges. State Sen. Willie Simmons (D- Cleveland) announced March 8 that he will introduce a bill to increase transportation funding next week. Read More.
Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam (R) told reporters on March 8 that he is willing to propose a state gas tax increase if enough legislators agree to support the measure. The governor said he would meet privately with lawmakers to see if a measure is possible. Read More.
West Virginia’s House Finance Committee has delayed action on a bill that would fund transportation projects with a 1 percent state sales tax increase, making it unlikely that the bill will continue on for consideration on the House floor. Read More.