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The Washington State Senate has passed Senate Bill 5801, approving a 6-cent per gallon gas tax increase to address a $1 billion budget shortfall. The bill, which passed with a 31-18 vote, is set to increase by 2% annually to adjust for inflation.
In addition to the gas tax hike, the bill also raises fees for electric and hybrid vehicle owners. Registration renewal fees for these vehicles will rise from $100 to $150.
According to Washington Senate Democrats, the revenue generated will support the state’s transportation budget. Senator Marko Liias (D-Edmonds) emphasized the bipartisan nature of the decision:
“This is a year of budget challenges, but through a spirit of collaboration and compromise, we found a bipartisan solution to keep Washington moving ahead.”
However, the bill has faced strong opposition from Senate Republicans. Senator Jeff Wilson (R-Longview) criticized the measure, stating:
“We’re putting gas taxes on automatic pilot and we’re putting the citizens of the state on mute. Their taxes will keep going up and up, without representation, and the state will keep on taking and taking.”
Senate Bill 5801 is one of three bills passed on Saturday aimed at addressing the state’s transportation funding issues. The bill now heads to the Washington State House for further consideration.
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