When even the conservative Richmond Times Dispatch editorial page says while increasing fines for driving violations might be a good thing,
Yet do fines qualify as prudent vehicles for financing roads and other transportation projects? Although a system strapped for cash can use every buck, a fine-based program – even when used as a supplement – relies on uncertainty. Indeed, establishing such a fund could distract attention from the compelling need: a reliable source of dedicated funding sufficient to maintain the existing network, while also building the projects Virginia’s growing economy needs. The package proposed by House Republican leaders reflects a more comprehensive vision. Sunday’s Editorial Page addressed the GOP plan. Future editorials will focus on the issue as it works its way through the legislative mixing bowl.
Supporters likely consider “abuser fees” ways to raise money without resorting to general tax hikes. The plan itself concedes there is a serious problem with transportation funding in the Commonwealth. The abuser fees – welcome as they might be – would fall short of salvational. As politicians from both sides of the aisle recognize, the climate is not propitious for increasing the tax on gasoline. But do not be surprised if gasoline taxes appear on the legislative table – not in the 2005 session perhaps, but maybe in 2006. Abusers should pay more. The dilemma is that users probably will have to pay more, too.
The anti-taxers must feel betrayed by the usually reliable right-leaning RTD editorial page. If I were running against said anti-taxers, this might be an editorial I’d have in my hip pocket, along with all those quotes from business people one reads in stories about the transportation shortfall. As the sales tax referendum of 2002 proved, business folks don’t always get their way, but they are building a coalition that might finally get something done, albeit not until next year.