Caltrans considers taxing California drivers based upon mileage

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KGO) -- Drivers could soon be paying higher taxes. Caltrans is considering what they're calling a "road charge" for drivers. Translation -- a tax based on how many miles you drive.

Currently, drivers pay about 30 cents to the state per gallon of gasoline.

"The gas tax, which is our major source of funding for transportation, is actually failing to keep pace with the demands and the needs that we have for taking care of California's transportation system," executive director of Caltrans Will Kempton said.

Caltrans says $8 billion is needed to fund the fixing of California's aging streets and highways.