May 9, 2008Virginia needs to raise transportation taxes, but offer relief to the poorFor Monday: Virginia needs some kind of statewide tax increase for transportation, and a gas tax increase makes a lot of sense. A small bump in the state sales tax might be necessary, too. But both taxes are regressive, and thus would put a disproportionate burden on the poor. If lawmakers pass one or both in the upcoming special session on transportation funding, they should also provide tax relief for low-income Virginians. |
SearchQuick Thought
Recent comments
Monthly archivesCategories
Latest columnsToday's editorialsLetters to the editorAbout this blogThe Roanoke Times editorial staff engages readers in a respectful dialogue and exchange of opinion, including our virtual editorial board where you can discuss tomorrow's editorials today. Read more about the editorial staff .....Advertisement.....
|
May 9, 2008
Virginia needs to raise transportation taxes, but offer relief to the poor
For Monday: Virginia needs some kind of statewide tax increase for transportation, and a gas tax increase makes a lot of sense. A small bump in the state sales tax might be necessary, too. But both taxes are regressive, and thus would put a disproportionate burden on the poor. If lawmakers pass one or both in the upcoming special session on transportation funding, they should also provide tax relief for low-income Virginians.

Comments
[May 9, 2008 5:18 PM]
Josh$3.59 a gallon, but "a gas tax makes a lot of sense."
Why doesn't the RT ever say "OK, government needs to comb through all the programs and evaluate which ones could be pared or eliminated"? Instead you want to add an addition burden to those who already pay far more than their share of taxes.
I think "it would make a lot of sense" to take my family on a cruise around the world, then borrow money to pay my utility bills.
[May 10, 2008 8:17 AM]
HERB KREBSHeres what it amounts to.
Why dont we just give every Poor virginia, no matter how they got poor, not staying in school, too lazy," its how I was raised", a state credit card they can get what ever they need food, house, car etc...
Then we rich ones will pony up the bill. Then we can get state cards because we will be poor due to stupid RT ideas.Redistribution, boy nothing like big government.