If you think we're already spending enough to fund Michigan's transportation system, consider the attached chart, which examines the impact of 50 years of inflation on regional state gasoline taxes.

The chart shows that to have the same purchasing power as the 1957 state gas tax, Michigan would need to double its current rate to 38 cents per gallon -- the greatest difference between actual and inflated amounts in the region. Michigan is also well above the national average of minus 15 cents per gallon between actual and inflated state gas tax amounts.

One other item to note: Michigan and Minnesota are the only states that have not had a gas tax increase in the last five years.