10-cent hike in Iowa gas tax finding support

DES MOINES (AP) ? Some people and groups worried about Iowa?s deteriorating roads and bridges have been expressing their support for a 10-cent increase in the state gasoline tax.

The Des Moines Register reports that at a public forum Wednesday in Des Moines, most of the speakers said Iowa must have more money in its budget to spend on preserving the state?s 114,000-mile road system.

The forum was sponsored by Gov. Terry Branstad?s 2020 transportation advisory commission. The commission will make recommendations to the Legislature, which is expected to consider proposals to raise the tax when lawmakers convene in January.

Trucking company co-owner Bob Kohlwes said at the forum that he and his fellow owners ?are more than willing to pay our fair share? to maintain Iowa?s roads.