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Senate to Vote on Road Bills, ‘See What Sticks’

Posted at 4:05 PM, Jun 11, 2014
and last updated 2014-06-11 16:05:23-04
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LANSING, Mich. (June 11, 2014) – Debate is underway in the state Senate ahead of voting on several bills related to road funding Wednesday afternoon.

According to Amber McCann, spokeswoman for Sen. Maj. Leader Randy Richardville (R-Monroe), they want to give senators several options to “see what sticks.”

It remains unclear which measures could be successful.

The first measure being discussed is Senate Joint Resolution A. The measure would increase the sales tax by one percent, using the money generated for transportation funding.

In order for to become law, it would need super majorities in both the House and Senate in order to put it on the November ballot. It would then need to be approved by voters before taking effect.

Among the others expected to be voted on, include HB 5493, which makes the tax on diesel fuel equal to the tax on fuel under HB 5477.

That measure gradually increases the tax on the wholesale price of gas. It starts at about 19 cents per gallon, eventually hitting 41.5 cents after 5 years. It’s estimated to raise more than $1 billion in increased revenues.

Those bills would be tied to SB 752, which would restore $200 million in homestead property tax credits.

Democrats have called for some tax relief ahead of any vote on road funding bills.