LAWMAKERS, GOVERNOR SHOW GOOD GOVERNMENT

The Missouri General Assembly and Gov. John Ashcroft provided an object lesson in good government last week. Working together and ignoring partisan lines, the lawmakers and chief executive put into law a modest fuels tax increase that will provide revenue for improving the state's transportation infrastructure. They did so despite uncertain fiscal times and a vocal opposition to increased taxes of any type. With their votes and signature, however, the elected officials acted in the best interests of the citizens of Missouri, which is the objective of representative government.

No one does cartwheels in anticipation of higher taxes. And the no-new-tax arguments usually get a sympathetic hearing in this space. However, ideology absent good sense does not make for a climate of growth. What the increase in the fuels tax offers are better and safer roads, a more fair shake from the federal government on highway funding, immediate jobs to jump-start the state's idling economy and opportunities for enhancing long-term economic development statewide.

Sugarcoating a tax is not our aim, but the measure had to be seen as an investment rather than merely a revenue raiser. We believe Missouri citizens are willing to pay extra for what can be proven is a good deal. Lawmakers, who must answer to those citizens, came to the same conclusion and moved the bill through the legislative process.

The first phase of the measure a two-cent increase will make itself known at the gasoline pumps on April 1. Given the volatile nature of motor fuel pricing, it is unlikely many people will notice the increased cost as related to the tax. The second and third phases, upping the tax by two cents each, will become effective in 1994 and 1996. We can only speculate on the price of gasoline in those years. What we won't have to guess about is the commitment the citizens of this state are making to road and bridge betterment.

A selling point on this measure was the exemplary track record of the Missouri Highway and Transportation Department in the wise use of tax dollars and the faithful observance of project pledges. The department kept its promises on Proposition A and state roads are better for it. The department can do no less this time around. Officials there asked for a great chore. They now have it and Missourians will be watching to assure it is completed. Let's get busy.