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Lawmaker: Gas Tax Plan Still on Table
Everything's on the table when it comes to paying for a major road and building plan for Illinois, and that includes an eight-cent increase in the state gas tax.

State Rep. Gary Hannig (D-Litchfield), the House Democrats' budget negotiator, and House Minority Leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego) agree a public works construction plan is a priority. Hannig says people in rural areas -- such as his district, south of Springfield -- would not be excited about paying more for gasoline, especially when prices have been so volatile.

Cross says lawmakers have to keep an open mind about all options, noting the gas tax seems to be just in the discussion stage. But he sounds as if he has made up his mind about any question of increasing the state income tax: "I think people are struggling with so many bills," he said. "One reasons we have a budget problem is we've spent money in a reckless manner over the last seven years."

(Illinois Radio Network)
02 05 09 by Newsroom
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