But in trying to get the two-thirds majority needed for the transportation funding package, lawmakers should be wary of compromises that undermine California’s values. That’s why lawmakers should not accept a trucking industry amendment that could make it harder to clean up Southern California’s smoggy air. California has long relied on fuel taxes to help pay for transportation infrastructure, but they haven’t kept pace with inflation. It makes sense to raise fuel taxes and continue the tradition of funding road repairs with user fees. Why, then, would they sign off on an amendment designed to stymie Southern California’s efforts to clear the air?

Source: Los Angeles Times April 06, 2017 12:00 UTC