The nation as a whole depends on coal for 55 percent of its electricity needs. Finally, Administration policies have directly increased the price of fuel. The Administration proposed an increase in federal energy taxes as part of the 1993 budget process. This proposal passed the Democrat-controlled House but Republicans in the Senate helped bring about its demise. For consumers, higher fuel prices lead to a general increase in retail prices, especially in those markets dependent upon transportation.
Some regional prices are much higher.
For truckers, railroads, airlines, and barges, the problem is compounded. Nationally, diesel fuel prices have increased dramatically, costing operators hundreds of dollars each time they fill their tanks. In some cases, these costs are passed on to shippers and consumers. In other cases, where operators are locked into long-term contracts, they have to either absorb the cost and operate at a loss or simply not fulfill the contract. Under TEA-21, revenue estimates for the Highway Trust Fund were included through FY 2003.