A 1-cent statewide sales tax that would generate some $1.4 billion per year is among several “funding options” a state legislative committee is suggesting the General Assembly consider to improve transportation. Other suggestions include increasing Georgia’s motor fuel tax, which has not been increased since 1971, and establishing an annual road usage fee for alternative fuel vehicles. In its 23-page report released Tuesday, the Joint Study Committee on Critical Transportation Infrastructure Funding doesn’t make particular recommendations, but says the state will have to cover a $1 billion to $1.5 billion annual transportation funding gap to stay economically competitive.