Why We Need a Higher Gas Tax

In an era of unprecedented government spending and economic instability, it would seem that the idea of an increase in the federally mandated gas tax would be less than popular.  According to many economists and this article from BusinessWeek, the only way to get the American people on board with fuel efficiency and reducing impact on the environment is to hike up the gas prices.  Think about it.  When gas was above $4 a gallon this summer, people were forced to think about their driving habits and what kind of car they actually drive.  Frivolous buying of an SUV just because it looked good and was big enough for their occasional load of 2x4's wasn't good enough.  When you make something cost its true cost, you start seeing changes.  Factor in our indirect funding of Middle Eastern dictators, and the impact on the environment and gas seems to cost a little more than $2 a gallon.