MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Gov. Kay Ivey has announced a special legislative session to consider a gas tax increase intended to fund transportation infrastructure in Alabama.
Accountability Pledge
“And I want to be crystal clear – this money will be scrutinized and watched over – every single penny,” Ivey said. “There will be strong accountability measures to make certain these monies are spent solely on transportation infrastructure. Period.”
In addition to the tax bill, the special session will include legislation to strengthen legislative oversight of the Alabama Department of Transportation, Ivey said.
Port and Ship Channel Bond Issue
An additional bill accompanying the gas tax would authorize a bond issue to improve the Alabama State Docks and the Mobile Bay ship channel, including dredging of the channel.
Supporters and Alternatives
Supporters of the tax have pointed to neighboring states. “Alabama must be competitive with our sister southeastern states, many of which have already addressed this issue,” said Jim Page, chairman of the Alliance for Alabama’s Infrastructure.
Democrats have pointed to other revenue options, including Medicaid expansion, gambling and the legalization of medical marijuana.
State Sen. Chris Elliott of Baldwin County supports the gas tax.
