Refuse to Lose: The Gas Tax

We were pretty sure it was needed. We knew it was coming. But things looked hairy for a while yesterday when a 54-43 vote against in the state Legislature put the gas tax and its proponents on their heels. In a comeback reminiscent of Rocky Balboa, however, the measure passed later in the day to tearful jubilation on the floor.

From the Seattle Times:

As soon as Chopp locked in the vote, the House erupted in applause, and the scene looked more like a church at the end of a big wedding. Teary-eyed Democratic members swarmed over to hug House Transportation Chairman Ed Murray, D-Seattle, and Republicans on the other side.

Senate Transportation Chairwoman Mary Margaret Haugen rushed to the House floor, where she and Murray shared a long embrace.

"I can't believe we did it," said Haugen, D-Camano Island. "Oh Lord, I can't believe we did it."

The unbelievable accomplishment is the raising of the gas tax 9.5 cents a gallon over four years; three cents the first and second years, 2 cents the third year and one and half cents the fourth year. This is the previously virtual money that will go towards your favorite transportation projects like the Viaduct ($2 billion), 405 ($972 million) and 520 ($500 million).

See this site for current gas prices around Washington State or here for Seattle.