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One
of the reasons that we have had a vibrant economy in California
was that we used to have one of the best transportation systems
in the world.
The
original intent of the gas tax and vehicle license fee was to fund
the transportation infrastructure. Now these funds go into the General
Fund and only a portion of that revenue is actually going to our
roads and highways.
Recently proposition 51 was defeated. It would have directed funds collected
from motor vehicle sales or leases to transportation programs including:
highway expansion, freeway interchange improvements, mass transit
improvements, purchasing buses, and expanding light and commuter
rail. It would have been beneficial to our economy and the environment.
The
revenue from gas taxes and vehicle license fees should be dedicated
to improving our transportation infrastructure. With a better and
cost effective rail and bus system there would be less traffic congestion.
Vehicles that are no longer stuck in traffic would not only reduce
harmful emissions currently produced, but would also help reduce
our dependence on foreign oil. Trucks and buses would move goods
and services faster, reducing transportation costs for businesses.
We would spend less money repairing our vehicles from damage caused
by poor road maintenance. California will have a more efficient
work force that can spend more time at home with their families,
instead of commuting to and from work. This will improve our quality
of life and help in the economic recovery of California.
It
is time to correct the neglect of the past decade!
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