(The Center Square) – One Wisconsin lawmaker wants people to know just how much they are paying in taxes the next time they fill up.
Rep. Scott Allen, R-Waukesha, introduced legislation that would have the state add gas tax price stickers to pumps across the state.
“While the final price is clearly visible, the components of that cost are often a mystery to consumers,” Allen said.
Wisconsin charges 32.9 cents per gallon in gas taxes, and the federal government charges another 18.4 cents per gallon. Allen said it is important for people to understand that more than 51 cents per gallon of gas goes toward the government.
“[This would] provide the public with information and ensure they understand exactly where their hard-earned money is going, especially the significant portion dedicated to funding our roads and infrastructure. We believe drivers deserve a clearer picture,” Allen added.
Allen says his plan would not cost gas stations across Wisconsin anything.
His legislation orders the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection to print the gas tax stickers, then would use state inspectors to get them on the pumps.
“State or municipal weights and measures inspectors will be required to affix this sticker to the face of every motor vehicle fuel pump during their regular inspection process,” the legislation states.
State Sen. Andre Jacque, R-De Pere, is the Senate sponsor of the plan.
“We believe transparency is a fundamental pillar of good government,” Jacque said. “This is a straightforward step to provide the public with a better understanding of gas pricing, making the process seamless and ensuring our consumers are fully informed every time they fill up.”
The plan now heads to lawmakers for co-sponsors. After that it will likely be sometime next spring before the legislation gets a hearing and sees its first votes at the statehouse.
