Re: [UC] SEPTA & Fuel Tax

[Craigsolve]

In a message dated 9/19/2004 1:17:13 PM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: you're right, the restriction did get written into the Pa Constitution ... apparently in 1981. Article VIII -  TAXATION AND FINANCE Section 11 - Gasoline Taxes and Motor License Fees Restricted "... and used solely for construction, reconstruction, maintenance and repair of and safety on public highways and bridges and costs and expenses incident thereto, and for the payment of obligations incurred for such purposes, and shall not be diverted by transfer or otherwise to any other purpose, ..." Motor vehicle fuel taxes and Aviation Fuel taxes are the only taxes so itemized! In retrospect, it makes a lot of sense. The tax is a constant dedicated revenue stream, which insures the general population will not be driving on "gravel highways.â If a constitutional change were not necessary, every covetous legislative special interest would want to divert some of the dollars to its cause of the moment. Even bicycles and public transportation benefit from the restriction.   Assuming your sited date is correct, the event occurred during the Republican Administration of Dick Thornburgh. Two years ago, I attended a lunch at the Union League where he spoke. He displayed an extraordinary intellect, knowledge of U.S. history, and sense of responsibility that government owes the People.   Ciao,   Craig