Commentary
California stands out with the highest income tax rate in the country (top tier of 14.4 percent), the highest statewide sales tax rate (7.25 percent, plus local sales taxes), and the highest gas tax rate ($0.78 per gallon). Despite these high tax rates, it ranks third to last in road quality nationwide.
In a bold move, California is considering a pilot program to track and tax the miles driven by its residents. This initiative stems from the state’s declining gas tax revenue due to the increasing adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, partially incentivized by government subsidies. Facing a $55 billion deficit, California is exploring various tax options, including a wealth tax.
California traditionally relied on the gas tax to fund road maintenance, but the shift towards electric vehicles has disrupted this revenue stream. To make up for the shortfall, the state is planning to implement a mileage tracking system using GPS monitors on vehicles.
Buyers of electric cars may have been unaware of this new tax-by-the-mile plan before their purchase. California’s mandate for all new car sales to be electric by 2035 adds further complexity to this situation.
Under the proposed plan, mileage could be monitored through electronic devices or the vehicle’s tracking system. This development raises concerns about government intrusion into personal privacy, especially as many Californians have shown a willingness to trust the government with broad powers.
The potential implications of this tracking system are unknown, but the state claims it aims to fund transportation equitably. Critics worry about how such data could be used and whether it will truly improve road conditions in California.
California’s focus on transitioning to green energy sources and reducing fossil fuel usage has led to controversial legal battles with oil companies. By imposing high fees per mile driven, the state could influence behavior and reduce the number of cars on the road, potentially impacting climate change efforts.
Despite these efforts, California’s road quality remains poor, with the state ranking poorly compared to others. The state’s priorities seem to lie elsewhere, diverting attention from basic government responsibilities like road maintenance.
In the state of California, essential services such as roads, schools, and safety are often neglected.
Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and may not necessarily align with the viewpoints of The Epoch Times.
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