Several construction, transportation and labor organizations are supporting a House measure that would phase in a 15¢-per-gallon increase in the federal gasoline tax over three years. The bill would raise additional revenue to shore up the Highway Trust Fund.

The bill, introduced by Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.) on Dec. 4, faces an uphill battle. But the proposal is an important conversation starter, says Beth McGinn, American Road & Transportation Builders Association spokeswoman. She notes that the trust fund is likely to run out of money in 2014 and says it is important to begin discussing possible solutions.