Public Media from Michigan State University

Snyder Signs Road Funding Bills, Launches Ballot Campaign

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gobytrucknews.com

Governor Rick Snyder has signed legislation to raise $1.2 billion to repair roads.

But, as we hear from The Michigan Public Radio Network’s Rick Pluta, the money all depends on voters approving a tax hike.

The governor signed a bill to guarantee that all state taxes paid at the pump will go to roads. A sales tax increase by a penny on every dollar would ensure schools, local governments and mass transit don’t lose money.

The governor says he’s not anxious to raise taxes, but this is a critical investment.

“No one likes our roads,” he says.  “It’s a public safety issue. You’re talking nearly 100 lives a year. You’re talking bent rims, blown tires, all these other consequences.”

The governor says he plans to take a prominent role in selling the sales tax increase to voters. The question is on the ballot in May.

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Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.