Oregon pumps up the spending

A transportation bill, already passed by the Oregon House and Senate and enthusiastically endorsed by Gov. Ted Kulongoski, is a signature away from being passed. If signed, the bill is expected to generate $300 million a year for infrastructure spending.

New taxes would be implemented in two phases. Higher vehicle registration and title fees would begin in October, while a 6-cent-a-gallon gas tax increase would follow in January 2011. The measure is expected to cost the average household $114 a year.