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1) Re: 2010 House Bill 5768 (Increase gas and diesel tax ) [by johnhurd on February 2, 2010]Take a look you Pols where the gas tax is going now and then come back and tell me to vote yes on a HIKE!
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Excise taxes (like those on motor fuel) are inherently regressive, having the greatest negative (real cost) impact on those who can least afford to pay them. This proposed increase is a bad idea.
Yes, Michigan roads are in appallingly poor condition. But there is no built-in guarantee that these proposed tax increases will measurably correct that situation. On the other hand, they certainly would reduce the amount of money working class people have to spend on consumer goods, recreational travel and activity, and the like, which spending is said to be the key to our economic recovery. Those who are underemployed or marginally employedwoulod be especially hard hit.
There is no question that Michigan is in dire need of increased tax revenues. To that end, a serious effort should be mounted to amend the state constitution to provide for a graduated income tax, which would spread the burden more bearably. General fund moneys raised by that mechanism belong in the road budget. In the meantime, we should continue to reject regressive tax increase proposals like this one.
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If the gas tax is increased then the sales tax on gasoline should be removed. All of the tax collected should go towards roads. None of it should go to public transit or the general budget.
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