You’ve maybe heard that Washington state’s operating budget has a big hole… in the 12 to 15 billion dollar range?

Well, that’s not the only fiscal crater lawmakers are trying to fill.

The transportation budget is underfunded by around $1 billion dollars right now, with a bigger deficit projected down the road, if nothing changes.

Lawmakers say that would put the brakes on a lot of big projects, including maintenance and highway construction on I-5 and I-90.

A blueprint to fill the budget gap passed the state Senate over the weekend. 

The proposal would increase the gas tax by 6 cents. 

There are also a bevy of smaller taxes and fees on the table: they could affect you if you ride ferries, drive on 520, go to big concerts, and much more.

Guest:

Senator Marko Liias, represents Washington’s 21st legislative district and is chair of the Senate Transportation Committee

Links:

WA State Standard: WA state Senate OKs gas tax hike and budget built on billions of new taxes

Seattle Times: WA transportation budget lays out options: All cuts or new taxes, fees 

 

Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes

Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.