NH House voting on 4-cent gas, diesel tax hike

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) -- New Hampshire's House is voting whether to raise the levy on gasoline and diesel 4 cents — the first increase since 1991.

Supporters say the increase would provide much-needed money to fix deteriorating roads and help finish the expansion of Interstate 93. Opponents say the hike would cost consumers and truckers at the pump and lead to higher prices on goods and services.

The bill would increase funding for highway improvements for two years, then earmark about half the proceeds to pay off $200 million in borrowing to finish the Interstate 93 expansion.

Once the debt is paid off in roughly 20 years, the tax increase would expire. The bill also would eliminate the Exit 12 ramp toll booths in Merrimack.

The House vote is scheduled for Wednesday.