WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Drivers should prepare for a slight bump in prices at the pump that’s about to take effect in Washington.

Starting on Wednesday, July 1, the state’s gas tax is rising by just over a cent to 56.5 cents per gallon.

The roughly 2% increase comes as part of a new state law tying fuel taxes to inflation that took effect last summer. Combined with the federal gas tax of roughly 18 cents, Washington drivers will now pay about 75 cents per gallon in state and federal taxes.

Funds from the state’s gas tax support Washington’s highway programs, which help to construct and maintain roads, bridges and ferries.

According to AAA, the average gallon of gas in Whatcom County currently costs $4.92, which is down over 20 cents from a week ago.