Taxing us to the limit......

Across the country there is a bi-partisan effort in state legislatures 

to introduce new and novel  means to bring in revenue for road

maintenance and construction. Once again, the source of this 

new revenue will fall upon drivers.

The non-persuasive argument is that states are not getting the
needed revenue to maintain our roads as improved mileage

has 'cost' the highway fund coffers. (Typical "govt. speak")

Many states, including our own, NC, are going forward with tolls

to supplement the revenue from the fuel tax.  This is seen as a
"cure all", without any evidence to show it is better than increasing
the current fuel tax by a penny or two!

One matter of concern most are unaware of is the administration 

of toll collection and spending. In NC our Dept. or Transportation

has contracted with a private company, not managing revenue

collection and spending itself, a troubling decision to many who
have viewed the contract!

Some states have added a mileage tax to all drivers pay for "road usage".

These measures are add-ons to the current state and federal fuel tax

as was the "gas guzzler" tax on cars that fall below EPA standards.

States and Congress are also considering raising the federal fuel tax,
while the public remains in the dark how past revenue has been spent. 

The public deserves a full accounting how all fuel tax revenue has been
spent before we new taxes, fees and tolls are imposed.

Fuel tax revenue has been used for decades to subsidize rail and buses,
including security at stations, airports and other facilities, while roads
and highways received no additional funding beyond what driver's pay.

Until a full accounting is provided the public should balk at paying for

tolls, fuel tax increases and mileage usage!

ajbruno14  gmail 

Three "Ps" of American Governance!

The relationship between political party leaders and elected
officials is sometimes difficult to understand, at least to me.
Often there is a bond between them that leaves rank and file
members on the sidelines. 

Whether you are a Democrat or Republican, you should
expect elected officials to follow the beliefs of their respective
party and the oath of office they hold.

You also should expect party leaders to represent the party
and its members first and elected officials only when they
support the party.

Unfortunately, too often this is not the case, and often splits
the party from its members.

Party leaders and elected officials need to be guided by the
"Three Ps" rather than political consultants.

The first is 'platform', the foundation created to be strong
enough to endure no matter the challenges confronted.

Second, are 'principles' elected representatives are expected
follow in the execution of their duties and relationship with
constituents.

Third, are the "promises" party leaders and elected officials

are both expected to keep in accordance with their respective

platforms and principles.  

When the American people can be confident political parties

and elected officials adhere to the Three Ps", then they can

begin to use a fourth P, "PRIDE" when discussing governance!

ajbruno14  gmail