JEFFERSON CITY — As Missouri lawmakers approach a final vote that would bring much-needed investment to the state’s transportation infrastructure, a new statewide advertising campaign is helping build support for additional funding. The Missouri Can’t Wait campaign was created by a broad coalition of Missouri stakeholders who have come together to rally for action on transportation funding this year. The campaign includes:
- Five video advertisements highlighting the need for transportation funding
- An economic impact study
- An open letter calling for action on funding, co-signed by hundreds of employers and individual Missourians
- A dedicated website including research, data and additional resources
- A strong push by transportation advocates in the state capitol in support of increased funding
The campaign is designed to build legislative support for Senate Bill 262, a bill that would provide more than $500 million annually in additional funding for MODOT to put toward roads and bridges. The bill would phase in an increase in the gas tax by 2.5 cents each year over five years. It includes a rebate mechanism so that drivers who do not wish to pay the increase can get their money back. The legislation also phases in increased fees on electric vehicles.
A study released last month showed that passing Senate Bill 262 could create a $1.8 billion positive impact on Missouri’s economy. This would also create an overall increase of $722 million in earnings across the state and more than 17,000 jobs.
“With less than two weeks remaining in the legislative session, Missouri lawmakers have a chance this year to truly ignite our economic recovery by passing Senate Bill 262,” said Daniel P. Mehan, president and CEO of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “This is an issue that unites business and labor, rural and urban interests, Republicans and Democrats. As Missourians see this campaign, we urge them to contact their lawmakers in Jefferson City and ask them to support Senate Bill 262. It’s time to act — Missouri can’t wait.”
