Just when gas prices are at a reasonable level, leave it it the politicians in Springfield to change it.

Reboot Illinois is reporting that there is an push to pass a motor fuel tax increase in the next few weeks. The money would go to support a  capital construction program or as a standalone revenue generator for the state.

Most drivers already know that Illinois already has some of the highest gas prices in the Midwest. The proposals in Springfield are calling for a 13 cent increase on a gallon of gasoline.

The current price of a gallon of gas in Rockford according to Gas Buddy for regular grade gas averages $2.49 a gallon. Adding on an additional 13 cents, would put that price at $2.62 a gallon.

Even though gas prices are at a relative low, there is no guarantee prices will remain low. The gas tax would remain in place even if prices were to head back to the high levels we had in 2013 and early 2014. You will recall that gas was at $4.49 a gallon at it's height, when you add the tax, that price would amount to $4.62 a gallon.

Lawmakers who propose the gas tax increase say we need the money to fix our transportation infrastructure.

Reboot Illinois reports that the legislature reached an agreement on a bipartisan fund sweeps package to help fix the $1.6 billion deficit.

The largest sweep to this was sweeping $250 million dollars from the Road Fund, and wiping $50 million from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund. This was the money which was supposed to be used for highway construction. It is clear, the state has the money to fund road construction projects, yet there is consideration to further burden Illinois consumers. We must use the money we already have, and not drive business out of Illinois.

 

Would you support a higher gas tax?

More From Rockford's New Country Q98.5