Mead Signs Higher Gas Tax Bill Into Law

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Gov. Matt Mead has signed a bill into law that will hike the state's fuel tax by a dime a gallon.

Mead has been pushing for a new source of funding for the Wyoming Department of Transportation since he took office two years ago. He says the state can no longer afford to subsidize the transportation department from general funds.

In remarks at Friday's signing ceremony, Mead says road maintenance will to continue to be a long-term need in the state. He says the state's highway system is vital to economic development.

The tax hike will raise about $70 million a year after it takes effect on July 1. The state transportation department will get about two thirds while local governments will get one third.