County, Business Officials Call For Transportation Deal

ST. PAUL (AP) - Minnesota county commissioners and business groups are cranking up pressure on the Legislature to pass a transportation funding plan this year.

Lawmakers have struggled for more than a year to put together a road and bridge repair package over a partisan divide on how to pay for it. Democrats are pushing for a gas tax increase, while House Republicans want to use the state's budget surplus and existing taxes.

More than 100 county officials from across Minnesota sent a letter to lawmakers Wednesday urging them to figure it out. Whether it's a gas tax or increase to license tab fees, Hennepin County Commissioner Peter McLaughlin says the state needs to find new money for transportation.

It follows a similar call to action from the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce last week.