Legislation aimed at raising nearly $900 million a year for transportation improvements in Georgia cleared a major hurdle Thursday when it passed the state House of Representatives.

The House voted 123-45 to pass the bill and send it on to the Georgia Senate after lawmakers rejected an amendment proposed by two key Republican leaders that would have reduced its revenue impact to about $500,000.

"I believe the need is there to get to $1 billion," said House Transportation Committee Chairman Jay Roberts, R-Ocilla, in urging his legislative colleagues to reject the amendment offered by Majority Leader Larry O'Neal, R-Bonaire, and Majority Whip Matt Ramsey, R-Peachtree City. "If we pass that amendment, we'll be reaching about half our goal."

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