A Counter-productive Idea

Legislators in California have been considering legislation to tax drivers by-the-mile, a replacement for at the pump taxation of gasoline. Apparently the states considering this idea believe that as more hybrid automobiles hit the road, tax revenues generated by gasoline sales will fall.

The whens and hows of this issue are not yet determined. A method of tracking the miles travelled by each individual automobile would have to be installed in each automobile. GPS systems broadcasting mileage has been mentioned as a possibility. However, a solution of that sort could be easily disabled by a tech savvy auto owner, so it's likely to be difficult (and perhaps impossible, and certainly costly) to put this program in place on a state-wide basis.

There are a couple of problems with the whole idea in the first place. First of all, under the existing system of taxing gasoline at the pump, those who use the most gasoline pay the most taxation. This includes SUV's, light trucks, and so forth. It makes sense, as these vehicles inflict greater wear and tear on the roads, and create an inordinate ammount of air pollution. Replace gas taxation with this new system, it seems that a portion of the load carried by the owners of these vehicles must be transferred to those drivers who choose gas-efficient, 'greener' autos. For a state that prides itself on encouraging environmentalism, this plan actually removes part of the incentive to purchase a more environmentally friendly car.

More on this as it developes.