Opposition Forming Against New Transportation Plan
Opposition is beginning to form against a new transportation plan proposed by Republican leaders in the Georgia House.
House Transportation Committee Chair and bill sponsor Jay Roberts, R-Ocilla, insists drivers won’t notice any change.
“This is plan that … if all components are approved, will put another billion dollars in new transportation funding without increasing the tax burden on Georgians,” said Roberts. 
Much of the new money would be raised by phasing out local gas taxes and replacing them with a higher statewide excise tax on motor fuel.
Local governments, however, are concerned. Amy Henderson of the Georgia Municipal Association says the plan would take away hundreds of millions of dollars from cities, counties, and local school boards.
“It’s definitely at the expense of local governments,” said Henderson. “The local governments would have to [consider a new] local excise sales tax, putting them in the difficult political position of being the ones who raise taxes.”
Debbie Dooley of the Tea Party Patriots called it a scheme that will result in higher property taxes.
“They are misleading voters by saying it’s not a tax increase. I mean you’re generating all this revenue but it’s not a tax increase? I don’t see how they sleep at night,” said Dooley.
Many rank-and-file Republicans are also expressing concern.
“If it has a negative impact on local governments and raising property taxes, I can just about guarantee you, that document will change. I don’t think there’s any doubt,” said Rep. Greg Morris, R-Vidalia. “It wouldn’t be palatable to me. I’m not saying it does that. It’s still early and I have to find out for myself.”
Morris and others reiterated that the bill is just a starting point and the conversation will continue throughout legislative session.
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