Accident response fees a bad idea
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Editor,
Folks, this "crash tax" is not a done deal and it is not just us fighting this bad idea. All across the nation communities just like ours are speaking out, forcing many fire districts and city councils to reconsider their decisions.
Because of public protest, many cities have rejected the idea, and other cities that enacted the tax are now reversing their decisions. On March 29, Sacramento, Cali., repealed the tax before they actually billed anyone. After repealing the tax in Vista, Cali., a councilman stated, “After I thought about it a little bit, it’s counter to what I believe in,” and, “I just think if we are trying to be fiscally responsible for citizens, raising fees is not really the way to balance the budget.”
Fifteen states have either prohibited or are in the process of passing bills that will restrict municipalities and fire districts from charging the crash tax. A Utah spokesperson stated, “We understand that local governments are facing declining revenues; however, public safety is a basic role of local government, and these fees take advantage of consumers.”
The crash tax is double taxation on local residents.
Insurance companies nationwide have said the insurance premiums will be increased for everyone living in areas that charge these fees to cover their costs.
Crash taxes can have harmful effects on driver safety, as motorists may forego needed emergency services for fear of having to pay fees.
If the taxpayers of Lake County quietly accept this "crash tax," it opens the door for government on all levels to start charging fees for services that have traditionally been paid for through our hard-earned tax dollars. Will the police now charge fees for responding to an accident or investigating a crime? Will the Montana Department of Transportation charge for clean up or damage? Will the county start charging fees to repair the roads? Will the school district start charging fees to transport the children? Where does it stop?
Boldly speak out; we can make a difference. E-mail your concerns to notax@live.com, and attend the next Polson Rural Fire District meeting on April 13.
Al Fillman
Big Arm
