Markell: Delaware tax and fee increases "unlikely"
After Delaware lawmakers balk, Markell says tax and fee increases "very unlikely"
DOVER, Del. (AP) -- Gov. Jack Markell says it's very unlikely that Delaware lawmakers will approve any new taxes and fees before they adjourn in two weeks.
The administration circulated a list of new revenue options this week that included raising Delaware's gas tax by a nickel and hiking motor vehicle documentation, titling and registration fees. The list also included raising weekend tolls on Route 1 and expanding the accommodation tax on hotel and motel rooms to include short-term beach rentals.
Markell said Thursday that the options were drawn up following discussions with lawmakers about how to afford needed maintenance and improvements to the state's roads, beaches, parks and waterways.
But Republican lawmakers blasted the proposals Thursday, and Democrats who control both chambers of the legislature appear unwilling to act on their own.
