The state's special account that funds projects to maintain and improve New Jersey's highways, bridges and mass transit will run out of money this July, and many observers are startled by how little progress appears to have been made toward a solution - such as an increase in the per-gallon gas tax to generate new revenue.

"It's a big game of chicken right now," said Assemblywoman Holly Schepisi (R), characterizing what is going on at the State House. "Nobody wants to pull that trigger and deal with the backlash. Neither the governor nor the leadership (in the Legislature) want to take that plunge."

This sensitive Transportation Trust Fund issue requires some nifty politics, agreed Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter (D) who appeared with Schepisi at a New Jersey Chamber of Commerce Roundtable Breakfast in East Windsor on April 19.

"It's an issue of bartering," Sumter said, without going into details.

Gov. Chris Christie has suggested he would be open to a gas tax increase if it is accompanied by lowering or eliminating New Jersey's estate tax.
  
"Nobody wants a gas tax increase," Sumter said. "Our partner states made the hard decision a few years ago to increase their gas taxes, and they are doing better economically."

The Assembly members were asked point blank whether they support a gas tax increase.

"Conceptually, if done properly, yes," Schepisi said. "I would, and there are others like me who would as well."

Sumter suggested she would support a gas tax hike too, noting that it hasn't been raised since 1988 and it would lead to more efficient and safer roadways.

Schepisi added, "We have to figure out a way to put ego, political ambitions and posturing aside and come to solutions."

A special thank you to United Airlines and Genova Burns for sponsoring the breakfast event.