2003 "Nickel" funding package
View the 2003 Nickel revenue package, which funds 158 projects over a 10-year period and includes a 5 cents per gallon gas tax increase, a 15 percent increase in gross weight fees on heavy trucks and 0.3 percent increase in the sales tax on motor vehicles.
Enacted for transportation by the 2003 Washington Legislature. The revenue package funded 158 projects over a 10-year period for a total of $3.9 billion. The revenue package consisted of a 5 cents gas tax increase, 15 percent increase in gross weight fees on heavy trucks and a 0.3 percent increase in sales tax on new motor vehicle purchases. All Nickel package revenue elements were deposited into the Nickel account to pay for the highway projects.
The 2003 Washington State Legislature enacted the Nickel funding package: "It's your Nickel, watch it Work."
The revenue package funds 158 projects over a 10-year period. The Nickel package includes:
- 5 cents per gallon gas tax increase.
- 15 percent increase in gross weight fees on heavy trucks.
- 0.3 percent increase in the sales tax on motor vehicles.
When the projects are built, and the accompanying bonds are paid off, the five-cent-per-gallon gas tax increase will expire.
Slow down on ice and snow.
It's easier to skid or lose control traveling at higher speeds. Give yourself more time to stop.
Carry chains, practice installing them.
Winter conditions could mean chains are required on your route. Practice putting them on your vehicle ahead of time.
Pack your winter car kit.
Carry extra supplies like warm clothing, ice scraper and brush, jumper cables and other emergency items.