A gas tax hike for Missouri is running on empty.

Lawmakers have shelved a proposed two-cent increase in the 17-cent-per-gallon fee.

Transportation advocates say they remain hopeful, even though the subject may not come up again before the legislative session ends in May.

Pike County supporters say a gas tax increase could reduce delays in construction of a new bridge at Louisiana and replacement of other aging structures along Highway 79.

Missouri is facing a transportation funding crisis and could lose more than 160 million dollars of federal matching funds if more state revenue is not found.

Voters last year rejected a proposal to raise the state sales tax to generate money for road and bridge projects.