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Letter To Editor
Dear Editor: A state commission headed by Senator William F. Stone of Martinsville reports that an additional $25 million is needed by the state of Virginia to improve the primary highways of the state. In principal we might all agree that improved highways would be a valuable asset. However, as with any expenditures, there is always the problem of where to obtain the funds. The proposed measures are: 1. A 2 percent title tax or all motor vehicles registered in the state of Virginia (would apply to all new and used vehicles including trailer units and even house trailers which may be towed on the highways) 2. Increase in the cost oi state license plates by $5. 3. Increase In the cost of driver’s permit by $3. The last two of the proposed measures are reasonable in the effect that they would have on the family budget for transportation and in proportion to other states. However, it is the title tax that needs some consideration. There are only two states in the nation that impose a titling tax on motor vehicles alone and not part of a general sales tax program. Suppose you are purchasing a $3000. automobile. Immediate ly you would be liable for a $60 title tax, in additloncto the usual personal property tax that will be due at the end of the year. If you happened to have a trade-in worth $1000 your title tax will not be based on the $2000. difference that you are paying for your new car but on the full $3000 purchase price. Actually this tax is more than a 2% tax because it applies to the selling price of the car regardless of how many times it is soldi If a $4000 car were sold several times through the years, the accumu lated tax would be more than 5% of the original price. And there would be undue hardship on many companies with a fleet operation who nor mally trade every year or two, not to mention the outlay involved for truckers who have a substanlal investment in each unit they purchase. In this day of suburban living and commuting, a car is almost certainly a necessity of life as is having a roof over one's head. Why then should we be further taxed on this necessity?
Automobile Dealers of
Rappahannock County
82.8%