Ohio Lawmakers Approve New Gas Tax Increase

Wednesday, April 3, 2019 at 7:21 AM

By Mike Perleberg @mikedup84

Republican Governor Mike DeWine says he will sign the bill.

(Columbus, Oh.) - Lawmakers are saying they have agreed on a new gas tax increase and are ready to send it to the governor for his signature.

At a Tuesday press conference, members of the legislature released their state transportation budget proposal to raise Ohio's gasoline tax by 10.5 cents per gallon beginning on July 1st. The proposal will also increase the tax on diesel fuel by 19 cents.

Economists say the new tax would cost a driver who travels over 10,000 miles a year about $60 more annually, or an average of just over $1 each week. The agreed upon bill stands to increase the state tax rate on gas and diesel to 38.5 cents per gallon and 47 cents a gallon, respectively.

Governor DeWine originally wanted to raise the gas tax by 18 cents, but said he was happy with the new proposal and would sign it once it comes to his desk.

Revenues raised by the higher fuel taxes will fund road, bridge, and other transportation maintenance and improvements.

The bill also eliminates Ohio's front license plate requirement starting July 1, 2020 and adds $70 million in funding for public transportation.

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