Michigan is facing one of the toughest economic climates in our storied history. With the cost of gas quickly approaching $3 per gallon again, it is no surprise that discussion of an increase in Michigan's gas tax is facing harsh criticism.

What most people don't know is that while oil companies continue to rake in billion-dollar profits, funding for Michigan's crumbling roads and bridges is dwindling.

Under our current transportation funding system, as gasoline prices rise, no extra money from the price increase goes to our transportation system.

Higher gas prices only deter motorists from purchasing gasoline. Under Michigan's 19-cent flat per gallon gas tax, when Michiganders limit their gas consumption, even less money goes toward fixing our roads and bridges.

In the last few weeks, gas prices have shot up more than 75 cents per gallon, yet none of this increase is being put toward funding our roads and bridges.

Michigan drivers are currently bearing the brunt of our crumbling infrastructure as drivers are forced to pay $370 per year in vehicle repair costs and time lost in congestion associated with Michigan's deteriorating roads.

We need a solution. Plans being discussed in the Legislature include switching to a wholesale gas tax that would be limited to an increase of a mere 3 cents per year - a small cost relative to the huge price fluctuations Michigan motorists are currently experiencing. This conversion would ensure our roads and bridges would be properly funded and maintained.

The choice is yours. Would you rather pay a few dollars more per month for smooth and reliable roadways, or do nothing and continue to pay $370 per year?

When our roads are maintained, we are more likely to attract new business. Economic development and job growth will not happen in Michigan when our road agencies cancel critical infrastructure projects, return roads back to gravel, and leave potholes unfilled and bridges closed because we lack the funds necessary to maintain them.

Our legislators need to develop a bipartisan solution to fixing our crumbling transportation system. We can no longer stand by while our roads continue to fail. The time is now. No more excuses - Fix MI Roads!