I know we're all unhappy about the rise in gas prices. It seems to me there is a simple way that the state of Illinois could give it's citizens a break, and I don't understand why it hasn't already been enacted.
The American Petroleum Industry gathered information in January on the gas rate per gallon in each state, and what additional taxes are levied on each gallon of gas. Illinois charges 19 cents per gallon, PLUS 6.25% sales tax AND a .3% tax for the underground storage tank fund.
It would be simple to pass a bill that changed the structure from a percentage of the sale to a specific amount per gallon.
At 6.25% per gallon, this is the tax you pay, depending on the cost of gas:
$1.75 gal. = 11 cents
$2.00 gal. = 12.5 cents
$2.50 gal. = 15.6 cents
$3.00 gal. = 18.75 cents
Rather than pointing the finger at the oil industry and crying "Gouging!" perhaps the state needs to consider an amendment that would give us a bit of relief. I'm sure that they figure there will be less driving, therefore there will be less gas sold, and less tax gathered. I know they want to keep their coffers filled.
But, cutting back six or seven (or more) cents per gallon would certainly help those who have to travel to work, and might encourage the rest of us to travel a bit more.
The Federal rate is 18.4 cents per gallon, a straight rate. I think Illinois should go to the straight rate as well.....and definitely one that is twelve cents or less per gallon!
