OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Washington drivers should expect to see higher prices at the gas pump as a result of this year’s legislative session.
The Seattle Times reports that gas taxes are the focus of transportation budget proposals with bipartisan support in both the state House and Senate.
Under the Senate’s proposal, gas taxes would go up by 6 cents per gallon in 2026 and grow 2% every year through 2031 to keep pace with inflation. It also suggests increased fees for electric vehicle registrations, a new tax on luxury vehicles and a $10 added fee on traffic tickets.
Meanwhile, the House is proposing a higher gas tax increase at 9 cents per gallon, which would rise roughly 3% per year for inflation.
Both groups are seeking to address a $1 billion shortfall in the transportation budget.
Lawmakers warn that deficit could grow to $8 billion by the end of the decade without new sources of revenue.
