When gas prices were over $4 a gallon, the idea of an additional gas tax
was a non-starter. But now that price had dropped by half, and the idea
of a gas tax has new life. Proponents say it’s a way of funding repairs to our transportation infrastructure, but critics argue an additional tax is unwelcome in the
current economy. Our guests are state Treasurer Jeb Spaulding, who’s
backing the idea of an additional 5-cent-per-gallon tax, and Transportation Secretary David Dill, who resists the idea.
(Listen)
Also on the program, VPR’s John Dillon looks at the progress being made
on cutting the state budget. (Listen)
And we’ll listen back to some of the voices
in the week’s news. (Listen)
Listener comments:
Peg Martin in Middlebury:
The bit that jumped out at me while reading your proposal was the statement, "Revenues from the assessment would be deposited in a restricted fund only for bridge rehabilitation and replacement." Right now many are eyeing the $2 million "surplus" in the Education Fund for purposes otherthan reducing the educational property tax rate. As a former legislator, I know such funds/surpluses are moved to other uses. If your proposal were adopted, how would you guarantee this fund is actually used for the purpose intended?
Anne in Greensboro:
Raising the gas tax makes a great deal of sense. Please do it! I drive a lot for work and am willing to pay a few cents more per gallon.