Calif. initiative seeks to end high-speed rail project

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Supporters of a November ballot measure to repeal a California gas tax increase proposed an initiative for 2020 that would provide money for road repairs and eliminate the state's $77 billion high-speed rail project, The Daily Journal reports.

The proposal comes from supporters of Proposition 6, which will ask voters if they want to repeal a 12-cent gas tax hike and increases in vehicle registration fees approved by lawmakers last year. The 2020 plan is the next step in their effort. It would change the state Constitution to require revenue from existing gas taxes be spent only for road and bridge work, not transit, bicycle infrastructure, or planning.

California's Legislature passed the increase on fuel taxes and vehicle fees last year. It is expected to raise about $5 billion a year for highway and road improvements and transit programs. For the full story, click here.