Lawmakers Propose Increase In Gas Tax

Missouri lawmakers agree on a plan to raise the state’s gasoline tax by nearly six cents a gallon to pay for road and bridge projects. State senators endorsed the proposal Wednesday. The plan would also require voter approval. Bill sponsor Senator Doug Libla of Poplar Bluff faced some opposition from fellow Republicans who argued that the Transportation Department needs to use its current funding more efficiently. Missouri’s current fuel tax of 17 cents is among the lowest in the country. The legislation needs another vote to move to the House.