Higher Gas Taxes Among Pa. Transportation Commission's Recommendations
HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) - An increase in gas taxes and vehicle fees are among the key recommendations to be voted on today by a special commission empanelled by Governor Corbett to study ways of raising new money for roads, bridges and mass transit.
Even if the proposed recommendations are approved today by the governor's transportation funding commission, they are just that -- recommendations. But the most significant of those recommendations involves allowing for an increase in the state tax on wholesale gasoline – an increase that would almost certainly be passed on to consumers -- and an increase license and registration fees.
In addition to fee increase, the proposed recommendations to be voted on would have the state go to a two-year vehicle registration scheme and would have driver's licenses renewed every eight years instead of four. Fines for some traffic violations would also increase.
The state enacted a new funding scheme for transportation in 2007, but a key element of that plan – tolling of Interstate 80 – was barred by the federal government. Tolling schemes will not be among the recommendations to be considered today.
Reported by KYW Harrisburg Bureau Chief Tony Romeo
