I would like to share with Gov. Bob McDonnell my perspective on the impending transportation bill awaiting his signature. My background is in engineering. Thus, I try to evaluate problems from an analytical approach.

The one part of the bill that seems completely contradictory to existing Virginia code pertains to the proposed $100 annual fee (tax) on hybrid vehicles.

I will not cite the complete code regarding energy; however, I am listing a few specific line items to illustrate my point:

“ 67-101. Energy objectives.

“The Commonwealth recognizes each of the following objectives pertaining to energy issues will advance the health, welfare, and safety of the residents of the Commonwealth. . . .

“6. Using energy resources more efficiently;

“7. Facilitating conservation; . . .

“9. Increasing Virginia’s reliance on sources of energy that, compared to traditional energy resources, are less polluting of the Commonwealth’s air and waters . . . .”

“ 67-801. Efforts to increase CAFE standards.

“It is the policy of the Commonwealth to support federal action that provides for:

“1. An increase [in] the CAFE (corporate average fuel economy standards for passenger cars and light trucks) standards from the current standard by promoting performance-based tax credits for advanced technology, fuel-efficient vehicles to facilitate the introduction and purchase of such vehicles; and

“2. Market incentives and education programs to build demand for high-efficiency, cleaner vehicles, including tax incentives for highly efficient vehicles.”

The last line even mentions tax incentives as a means to promote the use of hybrid vehicles.

Although the tax incentives have now expired for certain vehicles, it seems unreasonable to create law that is a tax disincentive.

I applaud both Del. Kathy Byron and Sen. Steve Newman for opposing this bill. I urge the governor to strike this item from the transportation bill.

Weather Journal

1 day ago