This week an Iowa House sub committee unanimously approved a 10 cent per gallon increase in the state’s fuel tax over three years. House Transportation Committee Chair Joshua Byrnes of Osage says an estimated $ 215 million is needed for road repair and upkeep. He says another major reason for the tax hike is for the state’s farm to market roads.

Brynes says the infrastructure funding measure is a two phase project.  Phase one includes getting money into the road and bridge fund. Phase two is about finding a long term solution to the state’s infrastructure needs. Brynes says the fuel tax increase idea is better than bonding to pay for upkeep which involves a loan and paying off interest fees.

Brynes says even though Governor Branstad has taken a neutral stance on the gas tax idea, if the measure can get past both the Iowa House and Senate, he thinks the Governor will sign it