Idaho Transportation Bill Would Increase Fuel Tax

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — A House panel has introduced a sweeping new transportation funding bill, seeking to raise almost $200 million per year to maintain Idaho's crumbling roads and bridges.

The House Transportation and Defense Committee voted unanimously Monday to introduce the bill. It aims to cover most of the state's $262 million annual transportation shortfall, about which officials have warned lawmakers since 2010. The legislation would raise the state's gas tax by 8 cents in fiscal year 2016. Diesel tax would increase by 12 cents.

Both fuel taxes would increase by 1 cent every year in order to keep up with inflation. The bill would also raise vehicle registration and permit fees. Republican Rep. Joe Palmer from Meridian says he expects the plan to change in order to survive both chambers.