Lawmakers trying to fix roads

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Hoosier lawmakers are looking at a solution to fix the deteriorating roads and bridges throughout the state. More than 20 bills have been filed in this year's General Assembly that aim at bringing in more funds for Indiana's roads.

It seems 2013 has become the year to reverse the decay of our state's roads. Right now legislators are looking at all options including some tax increases to rebuild them.

You hear the pothole stories all the time and you’ve detoured around the bridges that are deemed unsafe. All the while you're probably wondering how the state plans to fix this.

"There are several different bills coming down that would create extra money for local governments to operate and prepare their streets and roads,” State representative Clyde Kersey said.
    
In fact several Wabash Valley lawmakers are on board. Like House Bill 1286 sponsored by both Republican Alan Morrison and Democrat Clyde Kersey: it would make sure gas and fuel taxes go strictly to the Motor Vehicle Highway Account.
    
But one of the more controversial proposals is one that raises the gas tax by two cents per gallon; from 18 cents to 20 cents.

The measure estimates it would add 2.7 million dollars to the Indiana Department of Transportation and 2.7 million dollars would go to local governments based on their need.
    
Sitting down with Indiana state economist Robert Guell, he said how you feel about an added tax really comes down to what affects you more.

"Potholes do as much damage to cars and are as costly as filling up gas tanks. Although it is perfectly possible that it is in everybody's interest to pay a little bit more at the tank so you pay a little bit less or a lot less at the repair shop,” Guell said.
    
Most of the bills are still in committee, meaning they have not had a final vote.