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Minnesota May Start Taxing Drivers

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Gas prices are finally falling, but those savings might not last long.

At least 18 states, including Minnesota, are considering taxing drivers based on distance.

Gas prices aren't the only reason for the idea, since newer cars get better gas mileage.

Oregon has a pilot project that will start next year to test the idea. They're having 5,000 volunteers pay 1.5 cents per mile instead of the 30-cents-per-gallon tax.

An electronic device attached to their vehicle will report how far they drive in state.

Minnesota is one of four other states trying something similar. Hennepin and Ramsey counties both approved "wheelage taxes" last year.

Statewide, Gov. Mark Dayton has been considering a number of different ways to fix roads and bridges with less gas-tax revenue.

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