LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A proposed gas tax increase has advanced to a final vote in the Nebraska Legislature, despite vocal opposition.
Lawmakers gave the bill second-round approval Monday with a 27-14 vote. The measure would raise Nebraska's fuel excise tax by 6 cents per gallon over four years, for a total state tax of 31.6 cents per gallon.
One final vote is required before it advances to Gov. Pete Ricketts, a Republican who strongly opposes the measure. Overriding a veto would require at least 30 senators.
Sen. Jim Smith of Papillion, the bill's sponsor, says the tax increase would help chip away at a state backlog of deficient roads and bridges. Opponents say it would have a disproportionate impact on the poor, who often drive less fuel-efficient cars.
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