The Gulf spill, renewed attention to federal deficit, and summer driving prompts the Washington Post to advocate for a gradual increase in the all-time low federal gas tax, while acknowledging 'fierce' opposition by the electorate and politicians.
The editorial notes how "cheap" driving is today, and refers to the July 2, USA Today analysis (posted on Planetizen) that shows that the current gas taxes are the lowest in history when evaluated with miles driven and income earned.
"We're driving more miles but paying less for the privilege. Small wonder that alternative-fuel vehicles struggle in economic competition with the internal combustion engine. Or that transportation infrastructure is crumbling across the nation...
Any increase should probably be phased in so as not to remove abruptly what has turned into a de facto economic stimulus program.
Motorists hate taxes, of course, and politicians regularly bow to their resistance. But the truth is that few measures would generate more public benefits in return for less sacrifice."
Thanks to Bill Myers
FULL STORY: Tax truth: We need to raise the levy on gasoline
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