Snyder floats increasing vehicle registration fees as idea to raise $1B for Michigan roads
Gov. Rick Snyder said today he thinks the state should try to find a way to raise an additional $1.4 billion in revenue for roads and bridges in Michigan.
One of the ways to do that, he said, is by increasing state registration fees by $10 per month on the average passenger vehicle. Snyder called that "two trips to Starbucks" and said it could raise $1 billion — a good start, he said, but "we need to do more than that."
Snyder delivered his special message on infrastructure today during a news conference at Lawrence Technological University in Southfield. He said he wants to take the next few months to have an open dialogue about ways of generating new revenue for roads.
Rick Snyder
Instead of a retail tax, Snyder said a better approach might be a wholesale tax on fuel, which he said is a more viable long-term funding approach. He said the change could be revenue neutral.
“Michigan’s infrastructure is living on borrowed time,” Snyder said in a statement. “We must reinvest in it if we are to successfully reinvent our economy. I haven’t met a Michigan driver yet who is satisfied with the condition of our roads and yet we’re facing a $1.4 billion shortfall just to maintain our current system. If we want to grow our economy and keep our children here, then we need to fix the very foundation of our state."
Senate Democratic Leader Gretchen Whitmer, D-East Lansing, issued a statement saying she was underwhelmed with the governor's message.
"It seems that Governor Snyder can come up with bold ideas when they benefit his corporate friends, but when it comes to Michigan's roads and infrastructure system, we get regurgitated ideas that amount to little more than a shell game," she said.
Whitmer called the ideas the governor floated today "the same tired proposals" state lawmakers have heard in years past.
"Michigan actually needs to reinvent the way we pay for our roads, not simply shift fees around to give the illusion we're solving problems," she said.
Urging reforms to Michigan’s transportation user fees, Snyder pointed to the state's 2008 Transportation Funding Task Force and this year’s House Transportation Committee work group, both of which cite the need for significant funding increases.
Some of the recommendations include allowing counties and regional authorities to levy a local vehicle registration fee to support transportation if approved by local voters, and distributing new transportation funding based on road use and traffic volumes.
Snyder said Michigan is ideally positioned to emerge as a global trade center due to its location within the international shipping and logistics stream between Detroit, Chicago and Toronto. Taking advantage of that opportunity demands a modern infrastructure, he said, once again calling for forward movement on a second bridge to Canada.
Snyder also said he wants to see a new transit system centered around Detroit in Southeast Michigan. Detroit has to be on the path to being a great city again and needs a transit system that works, he said, calling it one of the main attractors of young people.
He talked about a multimodal system serving the movements of a new generation of Michiganders that he said is more active, urban-based and tech-savvy.
He called for further developing Michigan’s bus and rail transit, aviation system and ports. Thanks to the Legislature’s actions, he said, Michigan has secured $440 million in federal funds to accelerate passenger rail service from Detroit and Pontiac to Chicago.
He said Michigan also has rail freight projects, such as the Detroit Intermodal Freight Terminal and Detroit Railroad Tunnel expansion, ready for construction with additional investment.
Snyder called for further cost savings and efficiencies, including allowing counties to absorb their county road commissions. He said Michigan is the only state with county road agencies, and he pointed out there are 617 road agencies of various kinds in the state.
He also called for updating Public Act 51 of 1951 to remove cities and villages that receive less than $50,000 in transportation funding from the state's distribution list
Snyder also said he wants agencies covered under Act 51 to conform to Michigan’s new law requiring public employees to pay 20 percent of their health care premiums and have new employees placed on defined contribution retirement plans.
Snyder also is proposing continued investment in airports and said he will work with Michigan’s congressional delegation to secure additional funds to dredge Great Lakes ports and pursue construction of a new shipping lock in Sault Ste. Marie.
Also on the topic of infrastructure, Snyder said failing sewer systems can have a direct impact on the number of beach closings across Michigan each year. He's endorsing recommendations of a state advisory body to use $1 billion approved by voters in 2002 to provide grants and low-interest loans to help communities upgrade sewer and water systems.
Ryan J. Stanton covers government and politics for AnnArbor.com. Reach him at ryanstanton@annarbor.com or 734-623-2529. You also can follow him on Twitter or subscribe to AnnArbor.com's e-mail newsletters.
Comments
ecrhodes
Tue, Apr 2, 2013 : 3:41 p.m.
Why can't we just raise the sales tax by 1 to 2 %? That way everyone pays more fairly. Not only Michigan residents, but also tourists, business people, etc. I hope the governor comes to his senses.
Flhqueenie
Sat, Feb 16, 2013 : 4:27 p.m.
It seems a bit unfair that only the Michigan drivers have to carry the burden of keeping our roads in good repair. We are a tourism state, and on any given weekend, the traffic along the lakeshore and northern Michigan is clearly sporting plates from other states.
Wilford John Presler IV
Sun, Oct 30, 2011 : 7:16 p.m.
This wonderful idea is going to the same place his new bridge to Canada did...
FedUpinA2
Sat, Oct 29, 2011 : 2:42 p.m.
As Synder shows more of his real agenda, the rest of us are at his mercy. Another Engler by any other name. Wake up people!
zax
Fri, Oct 28, 2011 : 2:41 p.m.
This comment about 2 Starbucks a month is very interesting to me. When democratics hear the same analogy made on public radio fund drives, please give up 2 starbucks a month and keep public radio alive, do your part, they think it is fine and open checkbooks up. But now we have our Gov. saying the same pitch to keep our state afloat and suddenly we should be shocked by the thinking that people could/should give up 2 Starbucks a month. Come on people, help your state, forget about partisan politics for one minute, and lets try and get this state in the black again. You do it for radio, do it for the state you live in.
towny
Fri, Oct 28, 2011 : 11:04 a.m.
Oh ! I forgot that would be going after business and I forgot they have a free pass now. Right Governor.
towny
Fri, Oct 28, 2011 : 11:02 a.m.
Yeah do not go after the real culprit the commercial heavy vehicles that wreck the roads and pass another increase to the passenger vehicles owners. Good job and foresight Governor.
thinker
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 7:44 p.m.
With 4 vehicles, ranging in age from 15 years to 8 years, we would pay an additional $600 a year for the roads the oversize trucks wreck? Most states charge far more in diesel taxes than we do. Some of the money for roads from our taxes goes to the general fund, the education department. If you disagree with this confiscatory method of getting money for these things, do what I did and let Snyder know how you feel. Call Snyder Constituent Services: (517)335-7858, and let him know how you feel!
Dennis Hallock
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 7:01 p.m.
And for those of you in Saline, York Township, etc.. State Rep. Rick Olson, R-Saline, co-chairman of the bipartisan House work group that reported the $1.4 billion shortage, said he supports Snyder's plan to change the way gas tax revenue is collected. "The gas tax is insufficient and unreliable and, meanwhile, the cost of road construction and reconstruction is going up," Olson said following Snyder's talk. From The Detroit News: <a href="http://detnews.com/article/20111027/POLITICS02/110270399/Snyder--" rel='nofollow'>http://detnews.com/article/20111027/POLITICS02/110270399/Snyder--</a>$120-auto-fee-hike-may-pay-for-repairs#ixzz1c0djxflS It's amazing to see the extent that our Republican leadership goes to to take away from the middle-class. Don't they realize that the wholesale tax that is being proposed will be passed on to us. Or that most of us are already paying $500 to $600 in registration fees. It seems to me he already wants to tax or pensions, cut our schools, give $1.9 billion to business, ask us to consider another $40 fee for local roads, pay for rapid bus transportation between the Big Cities. Enough is enough! I'll live with the roads as they are now. They haven't improved my gravel road in years. Even with Rick Olsen living down the stree.
kmgeb2000
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 4:12 p.m.
"Snyder said failing sewer systems can have a direct impact on the number of beach closings across Michigan each year." For a nerd he fails at presenting the whole picture, such as the contribution of big-pipe municipal systems to water quality issues. This happens on the scale of millions of gallons per event (sewer over flows during storms) and likely to happen more frequently in the near fuure. Its a great gift to global engineering firms but definitely not the only reliable solution. Also big-pipe municipal systems are clearly not the most cost effective approach waste water disposal.
Lac Court Orilles
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 3:51 p.m.
Miltiple Choice Questions: (1) Who raises taxes on the middle class? a) Republicans b) Democrats (2) Who does Governor Snyder really want to build the new bridge to Canada? a) The Chinese b) Americans
Carole
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 2:48 p.m.
Was listening to Frank Beckman show on way to work and found it very interesting that his first guest speaker defending the proposal (sorry I can't remember his name) -- spoke of 19 cents being just pennies -- most folks put more than one gallon of gas into this car, so total cost is surely more that just pennies. When asked about Ohio's roads and highways, which are great, he stated that their gas tax was higher than Michigan's tax, yet the cost of gas in Ohio is usually considerable less -- ?? Also, he did not mention that Interstate 80/90 is a toll road which over the past 10 years has doubled in cost which generates a good deal of revenue for maintaining roads and highways. With the higher cost of gas, probably less is being used -- maybe if the price of gas was lowered, more would be purchased thus providing more 19 cents per gallon to go for repairs. It totally amazes me to be gas prices jump ten cents or more a gallon for no apparent reason.
A2BugaBoo
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 2:22 p.m.
Yes many roads need repairing but surely there are state funds that are being mismanaged that could be allocated to fixing or repaving projects. As for the two trips to Starbucks comment, I'm bowled over that the governor is so out of touch with reality. I can't tell you the last time I had a Starbucks, because I can't afford it! I can barely afford the registration for my vehicle currently, if I'm correct it ran over $100 last year, so this is basically doubling my registration to pay for roads that the state should already be able to care for because monies already secured are being used poorly... way to pass the "buck" to the poor saps at the bottom of the food chain. We're already paying through the nose for things like gas, bank fees, income tax, on and on with no break in sight.
Jim Walker
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 2:13 p.m.
An increase in the fuel tax would be far fairer, and proportional to the actual use of the roads. Why should an elderly person who drives 2,000 miles per year pay the same increase as someone who drives the average of 15,000 miles per year, or the high mileage driver who drives 20,000+ miles per year? Our federal and state fuel tax rates were set 14 - 20 years ago with no escalators for inflation, so it is no wonder our roads are crumbling. I think MDOT does a great job, considering the VERY inadequate revenues they have to work with. Nobody likes tax increases, but we should at least make them proportional to the road usage. James C. Walker, National Motorists Association, <a href="http://www.motorists.org," rel='nofollow'>www.motorists.org,</a> Ann Arbor, MI
jcj
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 1:27 p.m.
Not saying I am for this much of an increase, But at least he is addressing one of the problems EVERYONE complains about. I am willing to listen to all your honest solutions to fixing this problem.
Scott
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 12:53 p.m.
Wow, what an arrogant SOB. He says it is "two trips to Starbucks a month"...sounds very similar to what Netflix said when they increased their prices and that didn't work out too well for them. Now, this is the state and really what can we do about it. But if this guy thinks he can do this stuff and ever be re-elected I think he is crazy.
A2comments
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 12:33 p.m.
If roads need repair, the most equitable method of paying for them would be based on usage. Toll roads is one option. Vehicle inspections would be another, since mileage would be recorded at time of inspection. This would remove the unsafe cars from the road and an emission test would reduce pollution. We had inspections in PA (and toll roads), and had cars that were ten years old that passed just fine. Inspections catch brake, suspension, and tire issues, stop parts from falling off cars, and ensure emissions are within reasonable levels. If you drive low miles each year, they waived the emissions component. Studies show that vehicle inspections reduce accidents and save lives. I have no idea if PA used that money for roads or not, but that's not relevant as the program could be constructed to do so.
Mike K
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 1:19 p.m.
As a PA native myself, I was surprised to see that no inspections were required when I moved here 20 years ago. Yes, the inspection was a pain in the backside, but it is safe as you note.
dexterreader
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 12:19 p.m.
As a retiree, he decided to tax my pension, now he wants to increase vehicle registration fees. Nothing like putting the hurt on the lower-middle class. Thanks "Rick". How will all the travelers and truckers "just passing" through who also use the roads pay their fair share? Or will they get a free ride because they are "just passing through" and not really contributing to the wear and tear of our roads?
mitch
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 11:19 a.m.
why not tax the top 1% in this state instead of all of us who are on fixed incomes? my retirement pension is now being taxed and now more for the roads, when will the madness stop...!!!!!!
Carole
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 10:49 a.m.
I already pay $90 on my 2001 car. I also do not have funds to go t Starbuck for coffee - make it at home. Also, I am not in favor of wholesale gas tax, nor even the amount of taxes we pay already on gas. Yesterday, it was mentioned that the gas tax was going to the schools instead of fixing the roads -- if this is true, how can that be. Whatever happened to the lottery funds that was supposed to bring in tons of funds for the schools -- every evening on channel four they always mentions how the funds go to the support the schools. Maybe if the governor, state representatives and senators, paid an addition $50 per month, it could go toward the roads or budget deficient. As I have mentioned several times, when the times were good some years back, these individuals voted themselves in a 36% salary increase and how does that factor into their pensions. Frankly, I'm not in favor of any tax hikes--city, state, or federal until those in office become more fiscal responsible with how they are spending the tax payers funds.
Monica R-W
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 4:42 a.m.
This one is a NON-Winner! $120 a year? We have two cars we register, mines and my daughter. That's a $240 tax for what? Can't wait to write this story up at my blog. Thanks Ryan!
aareader
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 2:56 a.m.
When one reads all of this article that covers other ideas it appears the NERD will be vigorously supporting Pres. Obama's Jobs plan that call for major infrastructure improvements, ...finally someone that is working for the welfare of his State and Country rather than Party first. ... and supporting Obama's plan would save the Gov from having to hit the State's taxpayers for more funds. Maybe there is hope for the Rick.
aareader
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 2:41 a.m.
More money is needed for roads. A true statement. How to spread the cost evenly for all users is the real question. That is why taxes on gas/diesel for roads is the current solution But, as we know, there is not enough money to cover the needed repairs at the current rate. A fixed fee increase will not solve the problem. There has to be a graduated fee structure to equalize the amount of use and weight of each vehicle. Trucks, especially big ones, impact roads much more than small cars. AND how would money be collected from people (tourists, long haul truckers, etc) that travel through our state if we have a registration fee? When options are explored a modified tax based on gas/diesel usage may still be the better solution. Everyone pays based on use. If the Nerd really wants to do this right and be FAIR to all then these questions must be answered. Only then would I be willing to support a tax hike for roads..
Somargie
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 1:57 a.m.
Maybe not going to Starbucks is what helped the Millionaire Gov. to lose 6 lbs...but that doesn't justify an increase of $120 per year. This tax in the guise of a fee is just another "puff of stupidity" by the repubs. Who are they going to get all this money from? Not from the teachers, firefighters, police, parents of public school students and most people who work in MI who are either forced to give additional money to the state, pay extra for healthcare, whose salaries been cut because of greed & loss of workers bargaining rights. It won't be the unemployed whose benefits were cut by the repubs (even though those same workers paid for them when working) or lower-income people because they lost that "earned income tax rebate." Trying to get money from the very people they have consistently maligned. Thanks voters for this Gov....you're just helping me to finally leave this sad, sad state faster. I won't fund w/o public consent this increase and all the other crazy things being crammed down by the repubs and endorsed by that repub controlled Supreme Court who suppose to be protecting the people....but instead serving as another pawn ...that is destroying this beautiful state further.... Absolute power corrupts absolutely and the repubs that control the State of MI is proving this adage time and time again. Sadder is the fact that most people didn't even bother to sign the recall petition to save MI from this Gov.
1bit
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 12:38 a.m.
Give me a break, it's the cost of 3 gallons of gas each month. Or a pack and a half of cigarettes each month. Or 12 bottles of reasonable beer each month. With that said, warranties on the construction are necessary* to make sure we get value for the money we are spending. We need better and longer lasting roads and it doesn't matter if it's through increased vehicle registration, user fees, tolls or whatever. * <a href="http://international.fhwa.dot.gov/construction_mgmt/chapter_four.cfm" rel='nofollow'>http://international.fhwa.dot.gov/construction_mgmt/chapter_four.cfm</a>
1bit
Fri, Oct 28, 2011 : 2:29 a.m.
johnny: How do you figure out how far someone drives? What you are suggesting is more related to a fuel tax because that will approximate usage. The vehicle registration is already skewed. If you don't want a car, and the costs associated with it, don't get one. Again, I don't have a problem with graduated fees (which already exist) but it will never be completely "fair".
johnnya2
Fri, Oct 28, 2011 : 1:31 a.m.
No, how about a PER MILE charge for rregistration. If you drive X number of miles in a car that weighs Y, you pay Z, if you drive a vehicle that drives 3X miles and weighs 3Y then you pay 9z. A flat fee for all people means the person who drives 200 miles a month pays MORE for less, than the person who drives 5,000 miles per month. In what world would that be good policy? Oh thats right, in the Rick Snyder deluded world
1bit
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 1:42 p.m.
Okay, let me spell it out even clearer: it is 34 cents per day. Forgive me, but all this moaning and whining is ridiculous. I have no problem graduating the registration fee based on car/truck, size of vehicle, etc. But something will be need to be done and if you don't like it, then a fuel tax will be your alternative as toll roads aren't going to spring up overnight.
Marshall Applewhite
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 4:49 a.m.
@obviouscomment How much do you pay per year on high-speed internet?
obviouscomment
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 3:14 a.m.
Yes, 3 gallons of gas that I NEED. We consolidate as many of our trips as possible to save gas and as far as beer and cigarettes are concerned, we have never smoked and we rarely keep alcohol in our home...actually I can honestly say that I have only had 2 alcoholic beverages in the past year. And I know many people who are in the same boat as we are so $120/yr means a lot to us.
jrigglem
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 1:41 a.m.
Um, yeah gas is a necessity. You know to get to work...at that $9 an hour job I got 15 days ago after being unemployed for 2 years. Beer and cigarettes aren't a necessity.
J. A. Pieper
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 12:05 a.m.
Going out for a cup of coffee is the only form of "going out" that I can afford. Dinner out? too expensive. A movie? too expensive. Seeing a play? too expensive. Going to the zoo? too expensive. Shopping? only at resale shops. A sporting event? too expensive. A vacation, even here in Michigan? too expensive. Company over for dinner? too expensive. How much do we in Michigan have to give up these days? We certainly aren't supporting the economy as it is! Forget buy local, most of us just can't afford to buy anything!
trespass
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 11:19 p.m.
Just wait and see, the international bridge isn't dead. He wants to raise road money because he knows that he intends to spend the current money on the bridge.
trespass
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 11:15 p.m.
The Tea Party should be really proud of who they helped get elected. Raising taxes but at least it mostly affects the middle class and the poor.
David Briegel
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 11:37 p.m.
Leave no billionaire behind. Those job creators who don't create!
Mike K
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 11:13 p.m.
We need to recall Snyder and his pro public sector, anti private sector agenda. He is catering to his rich liberal buddies with a typical tax and spend agenda on "infratructure". How cliche. What really amazing is all the negative posts regarding this new tax. All you leftists want more taxes yet when a repupublican suggests it, it's all bad. I know, he just needs to tax the rich. I want to can him because he is indeed raising our taxes.
johnnya2
Fri, Oct 28, 2011 : 1:27 a.m.
You would be wrong on all counts. I drive on roads and pay a disproportinate share of fixing them compared to the trucking companies that destroy the roads. If having the largest trucks allowed in the country is such a good move, why aren't products in Michigan significantly cheaper than the rest of the country? Why arent the roads at least in the middle of the pack? It is because the trucking lobby wants big trucks with low taxes and wants those who use them less than they do to pay for them. By the way. I am a PROUD liberal. Tell me what part of the definition you disagree with> 1. favorable to progress or reform, as in political or religious affairs. 2. noting or pertaining to a political party advocating measures of progressive political reform. 3.of, pertaining to, based on, or advocating liberalism. 4.favorable to or in accord with concepts of maximum individual freedom possible, especially as guaranteed by law and secured by governmental protection of civil liberties. 5.favoring or permitting freedom of action, especially with respect to matters of personal belief or expression: a liberal policy toward dissident artists and writers. I am sure you identify as conservative: 1. disposed to preserve existing conditions, institutions, etc., or to restore traditional ones, and to limit change. 2.cautiously moderate or purposefully low: a conservative estimate. 3traditional in style or manner; avoiding novelty or showiness: conservative suit. 4.(often initial capital letter) of or pertaining to the Conservative party. 5.(initial capital letter) of, pertaining to, or characteristic of Conservative Jews or Conservative Judaism. I think any person with half a brain will choose being a liberal over conservative anytime.
Mike K
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 12:31 a.m.
You use the roads as do I - period. I don't care about your Honda Civic - in fact, I'd bet you have an Obama bumper sticker on that Civic with Michigan plates......... It seems that the new liberal target is trucking companies lol.
johnnya2
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 11:45 p.m.
No, we want him to tax those that are DESTROYING the roads to pay to fix them. My Honda Civic does little to destroy the roads and my registration fee and gas tax MORE than make up for the damage it does. On the other hand,. those semi tractor trailers that this state allows (most are smart enough to NOT allow them) tear up the roads exponentially faster than any passenger car. Let those trucks pay huge registration fees, or tax them directly to fix the roads. Oh that's right, you can only tax the poor and middle class in a Rick Snyder world. By the way, call it what it is, a TAX.
dfossil
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 11:04 p.m.
So Snyder does away with liquor taxes because he wants to help(?) business but wants to whack us all with this outrageous idea. Make sure he's a "one term wonder" folks.
Gorc
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 11:02 p.m.
Instead of raising the yearly car registration fee...maybe create a toll road for certain highways within the state. And then only the folks who use and drive on those particular highways are charged. Now it's your choice to drive on that toll road and pay a fee. Toll roads raise a lot of revenue.
kmgeb2000
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 3:53 p.m.
Would work except it would just be "sold" to a private company like in Indiana. Which kills me how public infrastructure can be sold to a private company.
Carole
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 10:43 a.m.
Might not be a bad idea. Several states have toll charges with PA being the largest, Ohio is not all that bad. Might want to take a look at toll on at least 94.
David Briegel
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 11:39 p.m.
The fat cat truckers don't want tolls!
tommy_t
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 10:26 p.m.
He certainly is in touch with the people struggling to feed their kids, pay their bills and taxes and scrape up enough money every week for gas to get to work - if they have it. Beat em to death with new taxes and fees and oh, make sure to turn them upside down to shake out any remaining change! Original thinker? Not even an original tax scheming weasel.
Ron Granger
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 10:22 p.m.
Tax and spend Snyder, on the backs of the working class. Washington state voters got tired of it. They overwhelmingly passed a referendum that set registration fees at $30.
Tom Todd
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 10:19 p.m.
Restart the Recall!
Dlr727
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 10:06 p.m.
So help me understand this. If you are a family who owns a 2011 BMW and Audi, you pay $240 more a year. If you are a family who owns a 2000 Honda and a 1998 Cavalier, you still pay an additional $240 more? On top of what you already pay? It cracks me up that he compares that money to Starbucks. Of course to a millionaire like him, it's small potatoes. Does he realize that for some families that is a substantial portion of a monthly grocery bill? And we're stuck with this stuff for 3 1/2 more years. Wonder what's next?
jorget
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 10:01 p.m.
Rick........This is an unfair burden on low income persons. I might wander down to Liberty Plaza tomorrow. I can not afford starbucks coffee. I used to be able to, but my wireless carrier is cramming me and my bank is gaming the system and it is their system. Now the State is cramming license fees.
Tom Todd
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:57 p.m.
listen up big 3 this could really hurt new car sales.
treetowncartel
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:54 p.m.
What needs to be raised are the business filing fees with the DLEG. They are ridiculously cheap when compared to other states.While not a big fan of raising the registration fees, I do think we need to focus on developing our infrastructure, looking to future growth, but lets do it wisely. for instance, right now, it looks like they are getting ready to do something on M-14 between 23 and the County line. If we are taking the time to do that work lets make it 3 lanes, look toward the future. Just like 94 should be widened to 3 lanes between 23 and 14 next time they decide to repave it. And while I pointed out local highways, there are other areas of the state where the highways could be a little more accommodating.
Huron 74
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:50 p.m.
The major distructive force for roads and bridges is overweight trucks. Why not increase the patrolling and fines for those breaking the law instead of beating up the little guy all the time?
jrigglem
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 1:34 a.m.
treetowncartel, So true. In the 20 years I have lived within 15 miles of MIS, I am yet to see the weight station at the corner of M-50 and US-12 open (MIS is about 500 ft from this intersection).
treetowncartel
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:55 p.m.
Yes, and if you will notice there isn't a single weigh station within 45 miles of the Ambassador Bridge, and the stations that are on the highways are rarely ever open. When you drive through other states it seems like the stations are always up and running.
David Briegel
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:49 p.m.
grye, You act likes he gives a hoot. Welcome to the "rest of us". Do you think the gang at "the club" will give him any feedback? Of course not!!
Tom Todd
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:48 p.m.
This is the kinda of thing that got everyone mad at Jenny.
annarboral
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:43 p.m.
The roads are really bad and need to be repaired properly. That said I don't prefer this appraoch. I think fees and/or taxes should be based on road usage. So taxing gas as a strong indicator of road usage appeals to me. Taxing each vehicle means a low usage car is taxed as much as a high milage truck.
Stan Hyne
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 2:42 p.m.
Maybe a combination of fuel tax and registration would be best. Electric and high gas mileage vehicles may make revenue based on just a gas tax fade over time.
David Briegel
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:51 p.m.
He just can't bring himself to "tax" his corporate buddies! I think you're getting the picture.
Tom Todd
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:39 p.m.
Vehicle registration is already way to high, seeing as it is yearly for a piece of paper and some computer info, also when & why did drivers license renewal get so high. Taxes are supposed to pay for roads, that right I forgot only the middle class and the poor pay so there is not that much to go around for all of rick's Junk.
Marilyn Wilkie
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 11:28 a.m.
Not to mention that added fee that they add on to our insurance premiums for the so-called catastrophic fund..
David Briegel
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:34 p.m.
So, TeaPublicon Slick must not have signed his pledge to Grover! A TeaPublicon raising "taxes/fees" on us normal folk. Who'd a thunk it?
jcj
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 1:24 p.m.
I would think a democog like yourself would be happy to see a tax increase!
Mike K
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 11:18 p.m.
Yes, taxes only can be raised on "the (hated or envied) rich" We "normal" folks shouldn't pay any more taxes. We don't use roads; only the "rich' do. Slick is too liberal and must be recalled.
CRAZYMAD711
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:26 p.m.
GREAT SNYDER, maybe the rich can afford $120 a year, but to the people that you have screwed with already, we don't have any left to give. You cannot get money out of a population that has already been hit hard already. I cannot afford 1 cup of starbucks a month, that is my gas money, let alone two. You will just increase the number of people who go without insurance. Not that it matters, if you get hit by one, the most you get is a $400 fine, but that is cheaper for some people. Tax the rich and leave the poor alone. YOu know if we all leave the state you will have to hire slaves from out of the county. Oh, I forgot, you already do that, bringing in from overseas, smarter people than us, to run our state, see July of last year statement about creating jobs by bringing in foreign students instead of helping our own. I really hope that there is a tab building for you in (fill in the blank) since you deserve to get the worse done to you. YOU have detroyed the state by destroying the people it it. I hope for every hungry, or sick child or adult out there, you get 10 times that pain.
A2Realilty
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 4:49 p.m.
Crazy. Mad. Accurate handle.
jrigglem
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:34 p.m.
That won't happen. Only the good and the poor get punished.
impsterboy
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:21 p.m.
Gee, I wonder if the unemployed, the poor and those living in northern Michigan and the UP go to Starbucks twice a month ...
james
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 11:38 p.m.
Well, if taxes and restrictions hadn't pushed many companies out of Michigan, the unemployed might actually be employed.
Paul Taylor
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:18 p.m.
Why doesn't he get his tuchas out to DC and try to get back some $$ for our roads? There are states out there getting more than they give, and Michigan is about due some money for all the economic pain it's gone through, which can be seen reflected in our infrastructure.
David Briegel
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 11:43 p.m.
Welfare states like Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul's Kentucky!
grye
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 8:59 p.m.
I am a fan of Rick and most of his ideas but am unhappy with this one. See, you can't please everyone all the time.
WalkingJoe
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 8:57 p.m.
I hope everybody who voted for Snyder is happy. All the people I know who voted for him said he was going to be different than "regular" politicians. I don't see the difference, he uses raising user fees as a substitute for raising taxes just like "regular" politicians. Oh, and we're supposed to be happy about it.
Mike K
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 12:36 a.m.
"Businesses are the ones destroying the roads. I would put a registration on all semis and tractor trailers. They destroy the roads AND are the ones who really need paved roads. The roads are for THEIR benefit and they destroy them the most." Oh dear lord............... Yes, it is business and corporations who destroy the American dream............... Corporations opress the protetariant and corporations have done nothing but hurt society........ Thanks for your input comrade.
DonBee
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 12:18 a.m.
johnnya2 - Take the time to look at the road fees on large trucks. I think you will be surprised at what they pay already. I am happy to see the fees increase on trucks, but they should not be the only payee for the roads.
johnnya2
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 11:39 p.m.
James, Businesses are the ones destroying the roads. I would put a registration on all semis and tractor trailers. They destroy the roads AND are the ones who really need paved roads. The roads are for THEIR benefit and they destroy them the most.
james
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 11:37 p.m.
As opposed to.....Putting Michigan companies out of business by charging tax on gross rather than net revenue? I find it hilarious that the Democrats are happy about gouging businesses when they feel they don't need the money, yet aren't willing to pay their fair share.
tim
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 8:39 p.m.
One thing Snyder has in common with Granholm is that he won't go to the governed and ask them for money. This is just another sneaky trick to get money from people without their consent. The roads should be part of our state taxes.
lynel
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 8:33 p.m.
I spend $10.00 per month for my 2 pounds of Folgers coffee. Am I supposed to give up drinking coffee and spend that $120.00 per year instead on a vehicle tax?
jrigglem
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 8:22 p.m.
I have two comments. The first being, not everyone can afford 2 trips to Starbucks. I've maybe been to Starbucks maybe once this past year. Not to mention I drive a 14 year old car, the registration on it really isn't worth 100 bucks a year. The second being, the reason there is a shortfall in roads being paved and the money to pay for it is because the same roads are being repaired year after year. Don't know how many years I've seen orange cones lining 23 with no change really happening. I say that with a particular time in 2010 when it said near exit 17 (Dundee) that there was going to be road work done on the median (or whatever the big section of grass is in the middle is called) and I never saw a single MDOT worker there the entire time span the sign was up.
obviouscomment
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 9:45 p.m.
my thoughts exactly...not everybody has money like snyder does...we certainly don't
jrigglem
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 8:24 p.m.
When I made my comment I thought it said per month and then thought that was way too high for car registration so my thought corrected to per year. Um, yeah I don't go to Starbucks twice a month. I still reiterate that my 14 yr old car isn't worth that increase either.
Tex Treeder
Wed, Oct 26, 2011 : 8:17 p.m.
$10 per month? This seems a disingenuous way to describe the increase. How about calling it what it is: $120 per year. Currently my registration runs about $60 per year. A 200% increase seems a little steep to me.
A2comments
Thu, Oct 27, 2011 : 12:13 p.m.
I have a 1998, a 2006, and a 2010. None of my cars is under $100, so this would be a doubling for me, still too much.