Senate Approves Transportation Finance Bill

After hours of debate on Saturday, the state Senate passed an $800 million transportation bill that would override a possible veto attempt by the governor.

The bill passed by a vote of 30-5, according to MyFoxBoston.com. The bill would tax cigarettes, gasoline and would apply certain new taxes for businesses.

Gov. Deval Patrick did not offer support for the Senate’s transportation package, but said in a statement he was happy with the day’s work.

“Experts agree that we need approximately $1 billion more a year -- in addition to further operating efficiencies -- to give our citizens a safe, functional, modern transportation system to keep pace with a growing economy.  Today's Senate bill is a significant step in that direction and I commend them for their work, he said.

Click here for explanations on the four transportation finance plans written by legislators this year.