The state’s Business and Industry Association says it supports a one-time, 4 cent increase to New Hampshire’s gas tax.
The group's Board of Directors voted to support the increase.
New Hampshire hasn’t raised its gas tax since 1992.
BIA President Jim Roche says well-maintained roads and bridges are critical to the state’s economy.
“I challenge any business to go 22 years with adjusting its prices,” said BIA President Jim Roche.
A 4 cent increase would raise $28 million for the Department of Transportation this year.
The BIA’s support comes with specific provisions, including that the money only be used for maintenance and improvement of the state’s roads and bridges.
The association does not support automatic increases tied to inflation, similar to what’s proposed in SB 367, a bill sponsored by Sen. Jim Rausch of Derry.
State transportation officials have told lawmakers they need more revenue to complete projects like the widening of I-93.
Starting in October of 2015, the DOT says it will face an annual operating deficit of roughly $50 million.
