Wisconsin Dept. of Transportation budget seeks $751 million in tax, fee hikes

MADISON (AP) — The Wisconsin Department of Transportation wants to increase taxes and fees on drivers in the state by $751 million over the next two years.

Its budget proposal submitted to Gov. Scott Walker on Friday will raise gas taxes $27 a year for the owner of a typical late-model sedan.

There would also be a fee on new vehicle purchases that would amount to $800 for a $32,000 vehicle.

Also, the owners of hybrid and electric vehicles would have to pay an annual $50 fee.

DOT Secretary Mark Gottlieb calls it a balanced proposal that provides long-term stability to the state's transportation needs.

Walker's spokeswoman Laurel Patrick did not comment on the budget proposal, saying the governor will review it along with other spending requests.