The General Assembly today recessed until July 9th, giving legislators an opportunity to return to their home districts to hear from citizens on the proposed 35 percent increase in the state’s tax on gasoline.
Before leaving, the House of Delegates Committee on Rules defeated Governor Kaine’s proposed tax hike package by a vote of 11-4. Two Democrats joined with Republicans in the overwhelming defeat.
Then, the same committee sent the Senate's gas tax hike to the full House floor without recommendation by the same 11-4 vote.
Governor Kaine’s tax bill was never introduced in the Democrat controlled Senate. Instead, yesterday, Democrats in that chamber passed the gas tax bill patroned by Senate Majority Leader Dick Saslaw (D-35, Springfield). The bill passed 21-16.
Despite another major hike in the price of oil again today, Senate Democrats are unapologetic in their support for the increase in the gas tax.
The vote by the House rules committee today sets up a political showdown on July 9th when all 100 members of the House will have to go on record for or against the hike.
Before legislators return after the Independence Day holiday, they must hear from you! Please express how much a burden a 35 percent increase in the gas tax will be to your family.
ACTION: Please contact your member of the House of Delegates and urge them to reject an increase in the state tax on gasoline.
Victoria Cobb, President
Virginia Family Foundation
Posts
