$4 gas prompts Americans to drive less
Americans drove 3.7 percent fewer vehicle miles in May 2008 than in 2007, says the Department of Transportation. Naturally this depressed the collection of gas taxes.
"By driving less and using more fuel-efficient vehicles, Americans are showing us that the highways of tomorrow cannot be supported solely by the federal gas tax," Secretary Peters said. "We must embrace more sustainable funding sources for highways and bridges through more sustainable and effective ways such as congestion pricing and private activity bonds."Secretary Peters said that Americans drove 9.6 billion fewer vehicle-miles traveled (VMT) in May 2008 than in May 2007, according to the Federal Highway Administration data. This is the largest drop in VMT for any May, which typically reflects increased traffic due to Memorial Day vacations and the beginning of summer, and is the third-largest monthly drop in the 66 years such data have been recorded. Three of the largest single-month declines - each topping 9 billion miles - have occurred since December.
Comments
Maybe they should use the cigarette tax. Then americans will smoke less or quit all together. Then we will live in a healthier environment.
Posted by: Dave | July 28, 2008 11:56 AM
There is something to the concept of funding all transportation costs through state and federal gas taxes by raising them substantially. It will help keep down the necessary income tax increases that will be required in the future to pay the taxes on the huge federal debt we now have, and it help keep down our appetite for oil and spur greater use and development of alternative energy.
Posted by: The_Mick | July 28, 2008 2:15 PM
With less money, the Government will have to make smart choices. I've already notices that my roadways are in disrepair. Government will have to negotiate down with private contractors and cut non-essential & wasteful programs.
Posted by: John | July 28, 2008 4:04 PM