Senate looks for its own plan for more money for SC roads

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — South Carolina senators are coming up with their own plans to get money for South Carolina roads.

Senators appear to want to raise more than the $400 million road funding increase supported by House leaders and Gov. Nikki Haley.

The Senate’s proposals include raising the gas tax by 20 cents over a decade, while incrementally cutting the state’s income tax. Senators would set aside 20 percent of any extra revenue for roads until it reaches 5 percent of the state’s budget.

Another plan would raise the gas tax but allow South Carolina taxpayers to claim a rebate for the extra money. Different bills would allow county voters approve their own 5-cent gas tax increase or borrow money to add lanes to interstates.

The bills are in a special committee.