Glenn Thompson – 10/23/09

This page was last updated on October 25, 2009.

There’s no reason to put tolls on I-80; U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson, R-5, Centre County; Beaver County Times; October 23, 2009.

Below is a detailed critique of the subject letter.

“Wednesday editorial (‘Road to ruin’) makes the misguided assertion that ‘critics don’t realize that tolling I-80 is the only option,’ when in reality neither of the options presented, tolling or raising the state gas tax, should be on the table.

“The federal government has already shot down the tolling plan twice. With Halloween approaching, it appears Pennsylvania has taken to the spirit of the season and brought this monster back from the dead.

“The plan to toll I-80 was a gamble because, federal law dictates that tolling only be used as a form of survival — not sustenance.

“Pennsylvania already has the highest state-imposed diesel fuel tax and the second highest state-imposed gasoline tax nationally. For every $1 in fuels taxes sent to Washington, the commonwealth receives $1.15 back, more than our fair share.

“That begs the question, where is the money going? We all agree that the commonwealth needs a funding stream for both highways and transit, but a third attempt at tolling I-80 is reckless and a further waste of taxpayer funds.”

[RWC] The “funding stream for both highways and transit” is for everyone to pay their own way. As I noted in my critique of “Road to ruin,” I support tolls on limited access highways as long as the funds are used solely for those roads. Likewise, people riding government-run transit systems should pay fares sufficient to support the systems without requiring subsidies from non-riders.

“Harrisburg should finally put this monster to rest and find an innovative and cost-effective way to sustain the transportation budget and live within its means, just like Pennsylvania’s hardworking taxpayers.”

[RWC] Mr. Thompson is right, but I get a kick out of a U.S. representative telling another group of politicians to “live within its means.” People living in glass houses throwing rocks comes to mind.