Originally Posted by Roody
I would want to see first, a huge graduated tax on autos and light trucks based on their gas mileage. Efficient cars should be taxed lightly, while gas guzzlers should be taxed to the tune of many thousands of dollars.
At one time we had CAFE standards that forced the automobile companies to promote smaller, more efficient cars. But when was that standard last raised - 1980 something? Then we let Detroit make millions of SUV's which, through a loophole conveniently provided, were considered "work" vehicles and didn't have comply with CAFE.
Originally Posted by Roody
Secon, the tax on gas should be gradually raised until gas prices reflect the true cost of usage. Revenues from this tax shoul be usd mainly for pollution reduction and cleanup, and research dollars for cleaner forms of energy.
A significant increase in the Federal gasoline tax is unlikely. Every sparsely populated western state still has 2 senators and their constituents, who annually drive many more miles than someone on the east coast, aren't going to be favorably disposed.
To quote Bob Dole:
Don't tax me, don't tax you - tax that fellow behind the tree!