There's good news and bad news for Arkansas residents today.
First the bad news: Gasoline and diesel taxes are going up starting today.
The state's gas tax will increase by 3 cents for a total of 24.5 cents per gallon.
Long-haul truckers and others who use diesel fuel will pay even more. The tax on diesel goes up 6 cents, making the levy a total of 28.5 cents a gallon.
And the good news? The money will go toward improving the state's highway system.
It's the first time fuel taxes have been raised in two decades. Gov. Asa Hutchinson signed the bill authorizing the increases into law in March. The new taxes are expected to bring in around $95 million a year.
Those who choose electric or hybrid vehicles won't be getting a break. Annual registration fees go up $200 for electric cars and $100 for hybrids
And gamblers will help make roads better as well. The state plans to use $35 million in revenue each year from the four casinos voters authorized last year.
No one likes paying taxes. But no one likes driving on lousy roads, either. And it takes money to make roads better.
Sometimes you have to take the good with the bad.