ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. -- Drivers across Central Florida could soon be forced to pay higher gas taxes on top of already soaring fuel prices. Gas prices are up $.16 in Orlando since the beginning of the month.

Eyewitness News has learned the state wants to raise gas taxes to offset the losses caused by amendment one. Motorists in Orange County pay $.06 and every county has the option to charge the tax. Now, the state wants everyone to pay that amount or more.

---

AUTO SECTION: Looking For A More Fuel Efficient Car?

---

Mike Blandeau has noticed the price of gas keeps going up.

"It's gone up last week a considerable amount. I drive 30 miles to and from work so it adds up in a hurry," Blandeau, an Orange County motorist, said.

Drivers could see prices go even higher if the state's taxation and budget reform commission has its way. It wants to make an $.11 fuel tax, and an optional $.01 fuel charge mandatory instead of giving counties the option to charge the tax.

In Orange County there is already a $.06 tax, but if the proposal is approved, Orange County drivers would pay another $.06 on top of that. Orange County commissioner Linda Stewart said she doesn't understand why the state is cutting fees in one area and then adding them somewhere else.

"It's just a bad situation no matter where we turn. We are faced with cuts and fees and things we have to increase," Stewart said.

The state also said they want to raise tag fees each year over the next three years.