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JEFFERSON CITY, MO. (AP) -- A state senator is promoting a new plan to boost money for highways without raising taxes.

The proposal by Republican Senator John Loudon, of Chesterfield, would direct 10 percent of the growth in state revenues toward highways, bridges and other kinds of transportation.

For next year, Loudon estimates that could be $36 million.

Because his proposed constitutional amendment would use 2008 as its base year, Loudon says it could direct more than $1.3 billion to transportation needs by 2030.

The idea is drawing praise from the chief engineer for the Missouri Department of Transportation. Kevin Keith calls it an "innovative suggestion."

If lawmakers approve it, the proposal would appear on Missouri's November ballot.

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