State Rep. McGirl Seeks Public Feedback on Gas Tax

JEFFERSON CITY – State Rep. Mike McGirl is seeking feedback from the public on the gas tax bills currently making their way through the state legislature. HB 1044 and SB 262 both propose to raise the gas tax in Missouri to fund road improvements. McGirl said he hoped to get feedback from his constituents on how they feel about the potential tax increase.

“On major issues such as a gas tax increase, it is crucial that I know here my constituents stand before casting my vote,” said McGirl, R-Potosi.
The bills would phase in the taxes over a five year period. The Senate bill is a 12.5 cent increase, while the House bill is 10 cents. Both bills would allow motorists affected by the increase to apply for a refund for the additional costs they incur.
MoDOT director Patrick McKenna has been asking for increased transportation funding for the last several sessions. Currently, Missouri highway conditions rank in the lower half of all states.

According to the Federal Bureau of Transportation Statistics, in 2019 Missouri ranked 36th in percentage of state highway miles with “acceptable” pavement quality.

“Residents of my district are deeply reliant on state highways. It is estimated that 75 percent of Washington and Jefferson County residents work outside their county of residence, and the average commute time for residents of our house district is approximately 35 minutes,” said McGirl.

Residents of the 118th District are encouraged to provide feedback directly to Rep. McGirl’s office by calling 573-751-2398, or through email at Mike.McGirl@house.mo.gov.