La. Gas Tax Bill Approved by Ways and Means Committee

GAS TAX  BILL & TAX REFORM MEASURES A  Louisiana  House panel  Tuesday narrowly approved a  bill that would raise the state’s  gasoline tax by  17  cents per gallon…a  move that’s expected to raise a half-billion in state aid for roads and bridges.  For now,  La. motorists pay 38.4 cents per gallon in taxes,  including  20 cents in state charges.. a  rate that hasn’t changed in 20 years.  Gov. John  Bel  Edwards,  whose transportation task force in  December recommended a  $700  million hike,  said he was "extremely encouraged"  by the committee vote. Baton Rouge Representative/ Republican  Barry  Ivey said the only way he would support the bill was if it received complete transparency via the internet.