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Raising the Gas Tax

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Ideas posted: 5

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Today on the Maryland Policy blog I wrote about the ongoing discussion in Maryland to raise the gas tax.

http://www.mdpolicy.org/policyblog/detail/time-to-raise-the-gas-tax

In summary, I said that this wouldn't be such a bad idea -- as long as we would actually use the money collected to fund the repair and construction of our roads (something that Maryland sorely needs).

What are your thoughts on the issue, or other issues like it in your area? Discuss.

Category: Politics & Government

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Road repair is certainly needed everywhere. The key question is: Will the tax be used for the roads (and public transportation where available)? Raising taxes is only OK if it is put to use for everyone who is taxed - not a few favorite people or for other issues. The 'pork barrel' slush funds must stop now.

Dec 6, 2010

people dislike taxes and generally live with the consequences

Dec 3, 2010

I think it should be raised everywhere. Why not? It would encourage people out there to take advantage of their public transportation options. Carpooling would also be increased and all of these highways wouldn't be as clogged as they are now.

Dec 4, 2010

The biggest problem with gas tax increases is that they never seem to use the money the right way. The money is supposed to go towards upgrading the roads, but will it? Maybe in Maryland it will, but it doesn't seem to work that way in NY.

Dec 4, 2010

yes people dislike taxes and it is not a good idea to raise the taxes....

Dec 4, 2010

If the price of crude oil reaches $135 a barrel, Maryland drivers could see gas prices reach $4 per gallon, according to the association. And that does not account for the switch over to the summertime gasoline mixture, which has increased prices 80 cents between the end of winter and the beginning of the summer driving season, Townsend said.
So with state lawmakers already wrestling with budget difficulties and limited revenue options, how does the legislature deal with the record gas prices?

Dec 3, 2010

Hello,

You know this is a very relevant topic right now and something that many people are facing. No one likes to hear that gas prices are increasing; however if we TRULY knew where the extra taxes were going, then maybe we could swallow the extra cash. If the roads in Maryland really do need work (which it sounds like they do), then maybe this won't be such a bad thing. Let's just hope you see the benefits of the tax!

Best of luck!

Dec 3, 2010