“Sticker Shock” Logos Popping Up at Gas Pumps Around The State

It began as an effort by the Washington Policy Center (WPC) to make the public aware of just how much of their money is going towards gas taxes in Washington state, and to make them aware of what the state is spending.

After repeated efforts, legislation led by Rep. Gary Condotta, you can now see why we have one of the highest gas taxes in the U.S.

Gas stations, like this one pictured in PASCO, are now beginning to display stickers showing what the state and federal gas taxes are. WPC says it's to inform citizens, and some say a subtle way to put pressure on the state to spend it's money more efficiently.

The gas tax has been a hot button issue for years, and now the state is toying with the idea (as is Oregon) of implementing a 'pay as you drive' system to replace the tax. Due to more fuel efficient vehicles, hybrids, and smarter driving habts, as gas taxes rise, people are filling up less. Gas tax hikes are not providing the revenue, claim officials, to pay for transportation and road projects.

The WPC is a non-profit, non-partisan group dedicated to pursuing sound fiscal and political policies between government and citizens.

So, the next time you fill up, keep and eye out for the "Sticker Shock".