A number of widely debated issues await Kentucky lawmakers when they return to the capitol on March 23. One piece of legislation that remains in limbo is related to taxation and the upkeep of Kentucky's roads.
A portion of the financial support for building and maintaining roadways across Kentucky is tied to the price of gasoline. When prices at the pump fell significantly over the last year or so, so did money going into the state's road fund. Although discussed privately by House and Senate leaders, no clear cut remedy has come forth publicly. Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer admits the issue may not be resolved this month. "It's an issue of consternation and there's no consensus on what step to take," said Thayer.
"Could it be January, then?" asked WEKU'S Stu Johnson.
"Possible, all things are possible," responded Thayer.
Pike County Representative Leslie Combs chairs the Budget Review Subcommittee on Transportation. She says the House acted to stabilize the gas tax last session and it's now time for the Senate to act.
Veteran Louisville lawmaker Jim Wayne says the issue may not be addressed when legislators come back later this month. "My hunch is that because that's such a major issue and because it's a political football, no action will be taken this session,” said Wayne. “It will surprise me if that happens. If it does not happen this session, that means the governor may well call us into special session to address that issue."
Members of the general assembly return for two more days the week of March 23.?
