Gov. Whitmer Set To Outline Gas Tax Hike, Other Budget Proposals

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LANSING (AP) — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is poised to propose a 45-cents-a-gallon gasoline tax increase to improve Michigan roads and bridges that she says will deteriorate further without a major influx of new spending.

The Democrat will propose her first budget Tuesday at a hearing with lawmakers. She is expected to propose offsetting a portion of the tax hike with targeted relief for certain residents.

If the Republican-led Legislature backs Whitmer's plan — which will be a tough sell — Michigan would have by far the highest fuel taxes in the country.

Whitmer also will outline a $500 million boost in state K-12 spending , including extra funding to teach at-risk, special education, and career and technical students.