In light of the recent proposal by Ray Lahood to impose a mileage tax, I propose radical new way to tax Americans' driving. I call it a gasoline tax.
Lahood's proposal: Mileage Tax
Simple version: Once a year have some government agency read your odometer and assign a tax based on the mileage that has accrued since the last time they checked.
Benefits: Simple. Those who drive more, pay more.
Downsides: Another yearly trip to the DMV.
Complex Version: Install GPS systems in cars that track their mileage. Charge based upon type of vehicle (gas guzzler or hybrid), where people are driving (congested or uncogested).
Benefits: No yearly trip to DMV for mileage review. Progressive tax based upon efficiency and and location of use.
Downsides: Cost of GPS installation. Big Brother will know where you are.
My proposal: Gasoline Tax
I propose that the US and state governments begin taxing gasoline at the pump. For each gallon sold, we could add some fixed amount that the government will take as tax--say 18.4 cents per gallon (I suggest raising that to 50 cents, at least). State governments could even institute their own taxes to further generate revenue and promote environmentally sustainable driving habits.
In this plan, people who drive more...need more gas...and pay more taxes. People who have gas guzzlers...need more gas per mile...and pay more taxes. If you choose to drive in congested areas...you sit idling with no movement...use more gas...and pay more taxes. Finally, taxes would be collected regularly with no trips to the DMV.
In sum, my new gas tax achieves all of the social and financial benefits of Lahood's proposal, without the inconvenience of yearly trips to the DMV or the cost of installing a government issued GPS in my car.
This revolutionary new tax system may well serve to help fund the roads, educations, and livelihoods of future Americans while helping to stave off the effects of global warming and chronic air pollution. I hope that all of you will consider supporting this new gasoline tax and writing your congresspeople about it.