Governor Vilsack is trying to restart his plan to give Iowans gas rebate coupons. The coupon proposal calls for taking 14-million dollars out of a state account used to build roads for new or expanding businesses. Vilsack’s spokesman, Joe Shannahan, says a new analysis by the Departments of Transportation and Management shows taking the money wouldn’t hurt the so-called “RISE” fund. He says there would be no delay in current or future road projects. The 14-million dollars would allow the state to give each licensed driver a 10-dollar coupon for ethanol-blended gas. Gas prices have dropped recently and experts say they’ll go down more. Shannahan says the gas coupons are still needed.Legislators shot down the coupon plan during meetings to discuss relief for high gas prices. Shannahan says the Governor is challenging them to re-think their stance based on the economic analysis.Lawmakers would have to call a special session of the legislature to approve the Governor’s plan.
Iowa's Radio News Network
