In the entry posted January 7, 2008 entitled “Relief from the high fuel prices” I had mentioned the need for fuel tax relief at the pump for truckers. Unfortunately, the need for a temporary solution has grown more acute with $120 per barrel oil.
There is growing consensus out there that high priced oil has a silver-lining. Consumers will drive less, buy more fuel-efficient cars and create a cleaner environment.
All valid points. However, there is a disconnect when one throws truck traffic into this argument. Since no one has figured out how to haul a load of watermelons to market on a moped, fuel costs as a percentage of operating revenue need to be examined very closely to ensure that reliable transportation is in place to transports goods to market.
Again, institutionalizing a method for fuel surcharges in respect to interstate commerce is a step in the right direction. Temporary suspension of federally imposed taxes is probably off the table because of the elections. Politicians are more concerned with gaining voter influence by rebating fuel tax to automobile owners.
How much attention should be given to the issue? Look at the banking sub-prime crisis. Just because an industry is large doesn’t mean that it can’t go over the cliff. Clearly the standard of living that we all enjoy is tied to an efficient transportation system. I hope for all of our sakes that someone back in Washington is minding the store.
–Bill Ryan
