5/23/05-Gov. Tim Pawlenty vetoed a transportation bill May 19 that included a boost in the state’s fuel tax.
The governor’s veto came less than 24 hours after lawmakers agreed to send to him a $7.8 billion, 10-year transportation bill that would have increased the state’s 20-cent-per-gallon tax increase on diesel and gasoline by a nickel each of the next two years.
It also sought to increase state funding for roads and bridges by 50 percent and double state support for transit.
Neither chamber passed the bill – HF2461 – with a big enough vote margin to suggest an override is likely.
The governor told lawmakers pushing the fuel tax hike he’s willing to compromise if voters get the final say.
With the Legislature wrapping up its work for the year Monday, May 23, a compromise to increase transportation funding is highly unlikely. A special session to continue discussion on a solution to transportation funding is expected.

5/16/05-The House voted 72-61 to advance a $7.8 billion, 10-year transportation bill that would increase the state’s 20-cent-per-gallon tax on diesel and gasoline by a dime over the next two years.
HF2461 would increase state funding for roads and bridges by 50 percent and double state support for transit.
The bill now heads to the Senate, which is considering a 7-cent fuel tax increase. If approved, it would head to Gov. Tim Pawlenty who has said he would veto any effort to increase the state’s fuel tax.
For bill status, call (651) 296-6646.