Submitted by Maximus, Apr 26, 2007 15:58

NYC taxes are very progressive in some ways (e.g., no sales tax on clothing). And the money is put to very progressive uses (like public transit).

If gas taxes were drastically cut or eliminated, it would mean more people would try to drive their cars in the city. This is a terrible idea... it would create more traffic accidents (and pedestrian and bicyclist deaths), more pollution (and we already have some of the highest asthma rates in the country), and more gridlock (which would actually be a serious problem for businesses, which rely on being able to make and receive deliveries).

In short, the gas tax is SUPPOSED to make it expensive to drive in Manhattan. Hopefully congestion charges will be instituted and make it even more expensive, so that those of us without cars (the vast majority of New York City residents) can have a better transit system, cleaner air, and less crowded streets. This city is not meant to be car-oriented, and anyone who wants to be able to enjoy cheap and unfettered use of their SUV should move to the 'burbs.

People like Barbara fantasize that their taxes are being used to support legions of parasites. Does she not remember that Bill Clinton got rid of lifelong welfare benefits in the '90s? Actually, the taxes we pay in NYC, while high, help to maintain a very good quality of life here -- a world-leading transit system, extensive parks, a good public health system, and remarkably low crime rates. If you don't like those things (or if living near poor people who may receive some limited forms government aid to improve the quality of their lives bothers you), feel free to move to a less progressive city.

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