Well, this horrible, evil system has been in effect for more than 60 years, and is the reason that California has the best overall highway system in the country, and why it's free to drive on. The term "FREEway" is a California term, because you never have to pay tolls. They coined the term first, and it has stayed that way ever since.
Also, just to set the record straight, the state has been entitled to 4 times more than they have asked for since the 1950's, according to the written law, yet a few years ago, the amount was slashed even further. They are simply reinstating a portion of a legal tax that they can impose. Did you write a letter of thanks last year when you saved so much on your registration?
Every state in the nation is going to be hit very hard this year with budget shortfalls, and they will do whatever they can to replace some of their lost revenue. In reinstating a portion of the vehicle tax, California has found a completely legal way to get some money back, without passing a new tax.
Yes, if you recently bought an expensive vehicle, then you're going to feel it the hardest for the next year or two, but the same is true with everything associated with a new vehicle, like insurance, part replacements, service, etc. It's one of the many considerations a person must take into account when purchasing a new vehicle.
If it's that bad, and you truly are unhappy, you could always move. (Boy, that sounds familiar. lol.)
Take care,
~Chris
|