Legislation has been introduced in Olympia that would inform motorists how much the state’s cap-and-trade program adds to gasoline and diesel prices in Washington. John Sattgast reports.

SATTGAST: Representative Keith Goehner (GAY-NER) of Dryden says consumers should know what they’re paying for at the gas pumps.

GOEHNER: “Now, typically, a consumer will go in and know what the cost of the product is. And when you get your receipt, you will see the added-on sales taxes. The fuel purchase is the one purchase that you make in the state of Washington that does not show what you’re paying in tax.”

SATTGAST: In the past, Goehner has introduced legislation requiring the posting of a sticker on fuel pumps with the state and federal gas tax rate. The Republican lawmaker’s House Bill 2050 would require additional stickers to disclose the impact of the state’s Climate Commitment Act on the price of fuel.

GOEHNER: “And what that climate add-on does, and that’s where this bill will not only identify the taxes, but also the fees that are being paid for the carbon credits for the production of fuel.”

SATTGAST: With Washington’s fuel prices hovering about a dollar a gallon more than the national average, Goehner says this legislation would ensure transparency and awareness.

The bill is awaiting a public hearing in the House Transportation Committee.

John Sattgast, the state Capitol.