A federal commission released a report Friday calling for a national gas tax hike to make up for the decrease in revenue brought on by drivers? conservation.

The commission says because Americans are driving fewer miles and conserving gas, revenues for fixing roads and bridges are running low. Specifically, it recommends hiking the federal gas tax by 12 to 15 cents a gallon, tying the tax rate to inflation, urging states to make greater use of toll roads and to hike fees for rush hour.

Gasoline and automotive groups as well as drivers are coming out against the idea. Kevin Beyer, of The Long Island Gas Retailers Association, says it's like motorists being punished for doing the right thing ? conserving and buying more fuel-efficient cars. AAA also opposes a federal gas tax hike.

"I hope the government thinks about another way to address this situation because it's abusive to the population of this country,? says motorist Lowell Feldman, of Huntington.

Rep. Gary Ackerman (D-Manhasset) tells News 12 Long Island he doesn't think Democrats will support that kind of tax increase.