House Dems to Unveil Road Funding Plan
Indiana House Democrats are set to unveil Monday details of their comprehensive infrastructure funding plan. The proposal is an answer to House Bill 1002, which is already making its way through the Indiana General Assembly.
The House Republican’s plan, which passed through the House Roads and Transportation Committee in late January, includes a hike in the state’s gas tax as well as increases the special fuel and motor carrier surcharge taxes and new vehicle registration fees.
House Minority Leader Scott Pelath (D-9) will be joined by Representative Dan Forestal (D-100) and Rep. Greg Porter (D-96) at the press conference. Pelath touched on the topic of the state’s infrastructure last month when he detailed the House Democratic vision for the 2017 legislative session.
"Together confront the future of Indiana’s circulatory system – our state’s roads, bridges, and railways," said Pelath. "The good news is that we have choices for improving how people get to work and move goods and services through our state. We certainly have had differences of opinion on what methods the people might prefer, and we must acknowledge that in several instances, you have done some of what we’ve recommended. But we share your sense of urgency about this prime component of Indiana’s prosperity. However, the people’s views will be essential, and our new Governor’s leadership will be key, especially with making the case for new road financing to the public."
The press conference is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Monday.