Alexander talks about Governor’s Proposed Plan to fix SC Roads

In her recent State of the State address, Governor Nikki Haley announced her plan for fixing South Carolina roads. It’s a three-part plan, which involves raising the state’s gas tax by 10 cents a gallon over three years, reducing the state’s income tax rate from 7% to 5% over 10 years and restructuring the SCDOT so it’s no longer governed by a commission appointed by districts. State Senator Thomas Alexander agrees with some points of the plan and opposes others. “Obviously we have big issues with the roads and bridges that have to be addressed. It is one thing to say, I want to reform the DOT but I think the question is what kind of reform is that. Counties like Oconee and Pickens that are far from Columbia, I don’t think we get the attention that maybe some counties closer to Columbia get. I think the gasoline tax because it has remained the same since 1987. As far as the income tax, I think we are going to have to look at that to see what the financial ramifications are but I think it is up for discussion. I think everything has to be on the table and it is important for us to come up with a comprehensive plan that addresses needs not the wants, I agree with that as well, the needs of the DOT and plans for us going forward for the next 10 or 20 years.” A 10-cents-per-gallon gas tax increase would bring in about $300 million more per year. The problem is that the SCDOT says it needs about $1.5 billion more each year to bring South Carolina roads and bridges up to good condition.