Surprise! A 3-cent gasoline tax to hit May 1

The Savannah Morning News has this gem about a hidden, 3-cent increase in the gasoline tax that will kick in on May 1:

The tax in Georgia is a flat 7.5-cents per gallon, plus an amount based on price. The part based on price is set on Jan. 1 and July 1 and goes up between those dates when the price of gas rises by more than 25 percent.

The price of gas has risen by more than 25 percent lately.
The rate of 10.1 cents per gallon that was set on Jan. 1 will go up to 12.9 cents per gallon on May 1, an increase of 2.8 cents, said Ken Heaghney, Georgia’s fiscal economist.

“It’s tied to the sales price,” said Brian Robinson, the governor’s spokesman. “It’s an automatic thing. The state didn’t vote to raise taxes.”

When gasoline prices were climbing in the summer of 2008, then-Gov. Sonny Perdue issued an executive order freezing the tax rate, saying he couldn’t justify raising taxes on gas when so many families were struggling.

Can customers expect a repeat from Gov. Nathan Deal?
Not likely.

“The governor believes an action like this, barring a state of emergency, is best taken in coordination with an act of legislation because it does have fiscal impact,” Robinson said.
“It’s not responsible to take that risk for a 3-cent tax issue,” Robinson said.

- By Jim Galloway, Political Insider

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249 comments Add your comment

steve

April 21st, 2011
3:04 pm

I’ve got news… there are just as many families struggling now as there were in 2008… the tax rate needs to be frozen.. period.. end of discussion.

Skreet

April 21st, 2011
3:11 pm

I love to hear all of these people that bought a huge SUV back in 2002 when gas was cheap and then sweetened up the pot by moving 80 miles from where they work moan and complain about the price of gas. You made your choices, now cough up the cash and enjoy them…too bad you won’t have enough to take your family to the Dead Lobster this month :)

Roderick T. Jenkins

April 21st, 2011
3:11 pm

Obama is my black president!!!!!

Obama for 2011!!

Henry

April 21st, 2011
3:15 pm

What did you expect when you voted Nathan Deal into office???? Republican

Centrist

April 21st, 2011
3:15 pm

The rising price of gas has a lot to do with the Gulf of Mexico drilling embargo. It is possible there will be yet another 25% increase this year, hence another 3% tax increase.

The only good news is that a lot of gasoline consumption is discretionary, and these market (and tax) forces will reduce demand. The Gulf of Mexico drilling embargo will someday be repealed which will have a market effect, too.

Just Me

April 21st, 2011
3:17 pm

Darn well it was hidden. This is the first I have heard about it. They will gouge us any way they can. And there isn’t anything we can do about it. Moped anyone?

ROFL

April 21st, 2011
3:17 pm

ENERGY policy, what energy policy?

rogtif88

April 21st, 2011
3:19 pm

David A. Staples

April 21st, 2011
3:23 pm

If the amount of the tax is going to rise when the price goes up, shouldn’t we just change the formula to a percentage instead? $0.075 + 3.5% or whatever? Seems like that would require less government interaction in the market.

Bobby

April 21st, 2011
3:24 pm

Gov. Deal’s gas for his cars is paid for by Georgia taxpayers. So why should he be concerned about working Georgia stiffs.

Moderate

April 21st, 2011
3:25 pm

Centrist
April 21st, 2011
3:15 pm

I agree that gas consumption is discretionary, and the US consumer can easily cut back on driving so much.

However, the drilling ban has ZERO to do with the price of gas. This has everything to do with Wall Street and speculators. Worldwide consumption rose just over 2% this year and last, after declining or steady in 2008 and 2009. This puts 2011 consumption just slightly over last years consumption. If anything, gas prices should only increase a few cents.

http://www.eia.doe.gov/steo/gifs/Fig6.gif

muletrain

April 21st, 2011
3:26 pm

Hey all those left wingers should not complain. Just means they get more money to spend on social programs….That’s right blame the Republican for the the left’s getting more money to spend….I love it!

Donavon

April 21st, 2011
3:27 pm

I got news for you Roderick T. Jenkins, he’s everyone’s President.. MORON !!!! And you will go out and vote for him again. Not because he’s a bigger MORON than you, but because he is black. Lest vote for skin color not the person who we hope will do a better job then him. MORON !!!

Donavon

April 21st, 2011
3:30 pm

He’s one of the reason gas is so high with the CAN”T DRILL IN THE GULF STAND.

Reaper

April 21st, 2011
3:31 pm

This is the biggest scam I have ever seen. They claim the economy is better but, there are still a lot of unemployed people and the ones that are not unemployed won’t be able to afford to travel to work at this rate. Groceries are sky high and people can barely afford to eat. Way to go with this new Republican leadership. Raise taxes on everything in Ga. to fund their under the table monoply. O how soon do the people forget how we got into this mess. Continue to blame the wrong people for this mess and continue to elect the wrond idiots and we will continue to sink deeper into hell.

Brett Favre was once a Falcon

April 21st, 2011
3:31 pm

“It’s tied to the sales price,” said Brian Robinson, the governor’s spokesman.” “It’s an automatic thing. The state didn’t vote to raise taxes.”

Then who did?

Paul

April 21st, 2011
3:32 pm

Why was it when gas prices were high everyone blamed Bush. Where are those people today asking the same about Osama Obama? A big part of the blame on the higher cost of not only gas but many other things falls squarely on the shoulders of this fool in the White House. This guy is a complete and udder “Train Wreck” since taking office.

Fletch

April 21st, 2011
3:32 pm

Don’t worry, all the SUV drivers are probably still flush with cash after they got the tax break from GW Bush for buying that SUV. It all balances out in the end.

commoncents

April 21st, 2011
3:37 pm

Fletch, the next logical step is another cash for clunkers program!

I can’t wait to subsidize another idiot’s poor decision

Sarah

April 21st, 2011
3:37 pm

I agree with Donovan !!!!!

Paul

April 21st, 2011
3:39 pm

Fletch failed to mention many of the SUV owners were given a bailout by this adminstration with “Cash For Clunkers”. Another failed program by this idiot in the White House. It’s been 2 1/2 years since Bush left office so this excuse no longer flys. It’s time to except the fact this “Hope and Change” President has no clue what he’s doing.

Udders go on a cow

April 21st, 2011
3:40 pm

Hey Paul. Your ignorance slip is showing. For example “It shows utter ignorance to use the word for cow teats in that sentence.”

commoncents

April 21st, 2011
3:42 pm

by the way… why is everyone crying over 3 cents a gallon? If you have a (large) 20 gallon tank, it’ll cost you a whopping $.60 more to fill up. If you have a MASSIVE 40 gal tank, holy cow!!!! $1.20 more!

If you can’t find an extra $.60 – $1.20 (per whole tank of gas), you have a bigger problem than a $.03 increase

SUV Owner

April 21st, 2011
3:42 pm

Hey “Skreet,” my wife and I have owned SUV’s since the 1990s. But don’t worry. We make enough money to fill them up each time we drive to the pump. And, we’ll be driving one of them to Florida when we go to the beach this summer. We’ll also reside in a very nice beach house paid for with cash, not credit. By the way, we have enough cash left over to take the family to any restaurant we want.

Terence

April 21st, 2011
3:45 pm

Hello, everyone. First I would like to say that we need to stop with all the dislike for Obama. Obama is a great president. He did not get us in the mess. The mess started before he was elected President. When he was senator for Illinois, he did many positive things for the state. And he was one of the senators who decline to go to war with Iraq. Obama is just one man, there are many speed bumps that are in place inside congress that prevent Obama and his administration for doing what is right for the American people. Everyone should just take a timout and stop with all the finger pointing. We got here based on world events as well as the events that are here at home.

dennis rodenroth

April 21st, 2011
3:46 pm

Deal was a democrat befpre he switched parties,so makes me think he is still in the democrat mind of thinking, and who cares what color the president is the make idiots in all colors, and we have one in the whitehouse now!

DT

April 21st, 2011
3:47 pm

Now that the gas prices are high as get out, NOW they want to expand public transportation but all those need to just take it and pay the high gas prices, those oppose to public transportation because it brings crime and more colored people in the suburbs just need to keep paying for gas. Don’t go with it because NOW you may benefit.

Also Dear right wing idiots. Who runs the oil companies? Republicans have done their best not to do anything the president needed EVEN when it benefits the American people how is that for idiots. Gas prices rise but yet all these oil companies report RECORD profits …. things that make you go hmmm.

I don’t care about paying the gas prices because I make the money, I have a good paying job and I am not struggling so do what you want

chezpaul

April 21st, 2011
3:48 pm

The fact is we use gas, we need gas, if the price goes up everyone suffers. The oil companies have a franchise and they are raking us over the coals. Yes it would be great if we had another way to power our cars but we don’t. For all the people that say we should have moved closer to work. There are no jobs out there , beggers can’t be choosers.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 21st, 2011
3:50 pm

@DavidA.Staples….did you even read your comment? You make no sense at all…do everyone a favor…Don’t vote, Don’t get elected to public office, and by all means…keep pulling for the dawgs.

Fletch

April 21st, 2011
3:52 pm

Paul – “Fletch failed to mention many of the SUV owners were given a bailout by this adminstration with “Cash For Clunkers”. Another failed program by this idiot in the White House. It’s been 2 1/2 years since Bush left office so this excuse no longer flys. It’s time to except the fact this “Hope and Change” President has no clue what he’s doing.”

Hey Paul, my statement was neither a detractor of Bush nor an endorsement of Obama. Merely an observation and elaboration based on historical facts. :)

Ghostrider

April 21st, 2011
3:53 pm

I’m so sick of Effing Taxes going up…Tired of these crooked Politicians, if a Politician has his\her mouth open you can bet theres a lie coming out. Effing Crooks.

Fletch

April 21st, 2011
3:56 pm

And I’m with SUV owner. I actually like the higher gas prices because it tends to thin out the herd on the freeways. If we could get to around $6.00 or $7.00 a gallon, my commute would be rockin!

The Reader

April 21st, 2011
3:56 pm

US government. For the people? Dream on. These days, when most of us struggle, our government should be looking for ways how to ease up the things, thus help up the working class, and start up the economy. The reality is quite opposite. Looking for more $$ to take from us – SOS. Increase taxes, even tax your friend who wants to buy your old, beat up car…That all on the top of us stealing oil from iraq, etc. Who are we? Where to??

USC GAMEC0CK

April 21st, 2011
3:57 pm

Terence – your reasoning and logic shows you are strapped in and watching the so called news then thinking you are educated about our government, taxes and economy….believe me when i say…you don’t have a clue dude.

Ghostrider

April 21st, 2011
3:58 pm

@Fletch

Your a Frigging Idiot…..

Just Wait

April 21st, 2011
3:58 pm

In case you didn’t read the article, this is a Georgia tax and has nothing to do with drilling in the Gulf or how you feel about the President. Take you complaints where they belong. GOVERNOR NATHAN DEAL!

Kay

April 21st, 2011
3:59 pm

Donovan and Sarah are the MORONS. This mess was made in eight years before President Obama and it’s going to take many more years to get out!

just going to get worse

April 21st, 2011
4:00 pm

My next car is definitely going to be more fuel efficient. I get about 25 mpg city/highway now, which isn’t terrible but isn’t good either.

I think the price of gas is generally going to keep going up (there are always ups and downs during the year). I think we’ll be looking at an average of $6-7/gallon in about five years.

Fletch

April 21st, 2011
4:02 pm

Ghostrider – “Your a Frigging Idiot…..”

Not at all, just a realist. back in 2008 when the prices were around $4.50 a gallon, there was a signifcant decrease in traffic and it was great. All I’m saying is that I have no problem paying $100.00 a week to fill up if it means not having to sit in traffic for an hour to go 30 miles.

Ghostrider

April 21st, 2011
4:07 pm

@Fletch

All I can say is I’m glad I’m close to retirement, then they charge $10.00 a Gal. for all I care. I’m just tired of my paycheck getting smaller and smaller because of Taxes.

Tom

April 21st, 2011
4:08 pm

Another sneaky tax increase – what joy.

To Terrance @ our President — It’s obvious Obama is in way over his head. I seriously doubt you’ve ever done any research on his voting record as you’d realized that he voted “present” the vast majority of the time he was in the Illinois Senate. Not to mention lack of any documentation from his Harvard Law Review days (papers / grades / etc) and how he wasn’t influenced at all after attending Rev. Wright’s church for 20 years … How many more lies and inconsistencies do you need??? A blind fool with only 1/2 a brain can see right through him. My big toe has more common sense than our President …

Centrist

April 21st, 2011
4:08 pm

There is no doubt the drilling ban in the Gulf has had some effect (unless you are so partisan that you ignore it). The following link may be an exaggeration – but it is at leased BASED on market forces:

http://www.mrc.org/bmi/articles/2011/Rising_Gas_Prices_Linked_to_Obama_Drilling_Ban_in_Just__of_Evening_News_Stories.html

GaBlue

April 21st, 2011
4:09 pm

I saw Goobener Gimmeah Deal on Channel 5’s local morning show today. When asked how he felt about the recent legislative session, he said, “The people of Georgia should be pleased that we managed to fill a 200 million dollar hole in the budget without raising anyone’s taxes.” (Or something to that effect.) I said, “Bwaaa hahahaaaa! Right. What kind of a dumbfrig belives THAT *bleep*?”

Great timing Goobener!!!

USC GAMEC0CK

April 21st, 2011
4:11 pm

Centrist – please don’t use the term “market forces” on this board because half the people posting won’t have a clue what you are talking about…if you need an example…read comments posted by Terrence…that should do it.

E-Roll

April 21st, 2011
4:12 pm

Thank you Just Wait – This is a GEORGIA gas tax, it has nothing to do with Presidents Obama or Bush or Reagan for that matter. Drilling in the Gulf of Mexico or the lack of drilling (which would take about 20 years to produce oil) has nothing to do with this tax. According to the article it automatically keeps in at a certain price here in Georgia.

Some of you can’t see the forest for the trees, :-)

Ole Guy

April 21st, 2011
4:15 pm

Some of these replys do not surprise me. The propensity of some/many to cast blame in every direction is indicative of those who deserve every bit of economic woe which falls upon their lousy self-centered selves. NEWS FLASH: THIS IS NOTHING NEW, AND HAS BEEN IN THE MAKING FOR A LONG LONG TIME. That being said, there are essentially two groups of people here: 1) those who recognized the signals, planned, and took the sometimes not-pleasant steps to prepare for the onset of reality, and 2) the idiots…those who feel that they should not have to be bothered with reality; those who feel that they can continue feeding their self-centered egos, much at the expense of the rest of us.

So go ahead and complain all you want; gripe about the hardships, etc, etc, ad nauseum. You deserve every morsel of woe which comes your way.

GaBlue

April 21st, 2011
4:18 pm

Ole Guy: “You deserve every morsel of woe which comes your way.”

Bless your heart.

Bacchus

April 21st, 2011
4:19 pm

3 cents is nothing. I watched the prices go up 10 cents overnight a few times in the last month. Which is nothing when the prices are topping $4.

With increasing summer demand + Middle East instability + the collapsing U.S. Dollar driving prices towards $5, we should just be thankful they only added a 3 CENT gas tax and not a 3 PERCENT gas tax.

Thomas Paine

April 21st, 2011
4:20 pm

Here’s an idea. Use less gas. Maybe drag racing your gigantic Expedition to be first at the next red light, and doing 45 in the grocery store parking lot will become a thing of the past.

It’s pretty simple. You want change, change yourself. Fuel has been a problem in this country for 30 years, and still everyone just wants to bitch instead of doing something.

Walk, ride a bike. Maybe you’ll lose some weight and feel better.

Centrist

April 21st, 2011
4:20 pm

Looking through some trees to see more forest – this blog points out that the tax does not “keep at a certain price” but GOES UP if the price of gas increases 25% – which it has done. Some (maybe a majority) of that increase is a result of the oil drilling embargo. All you have to do is look at a timeline chart. It does NOT take 20 years to produce oil when there are rigs and workers unemployed due to the embargo.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 21st, 2011
4:21 pm

Unfortunately “OleGuy”…the people you call idiots are the ones who get government handouts and then get our politicians to tax the rest of us even more so the “idiots”, as you call them, can keep getting in our pockets through government taxation…seems like the idiots have figured out how to get without work…plus they don’t even know how the economy really works…amazing…it really is amazing.

Bacchus

April 21st, 2011
4:22 pm

@Fletch – The last time we paid $4.50 per gallon, the roads were clear of jams because half the gas stations had run dry due to a supply shortage (refinery shutdowns in the Gulf due to hurricanes). Nobody could buy any gas to begin with.

We’re going to still have heavy traffic, it will just cost more for the pleasure of sitting in it.

deegee

April 21st, 2011
4:23 pm

“The governor believes an action like this, barring a state of emergency, is best taken in coordination with an act of legislation because it does have fiscal impact,” Robinson said. “It’s not responsible to take that risk for a 3-cent tax issue,” Robinson said.”

What risk? Sonny did it, why can’t the spineless Nathan Steal do the same thing? I guess he needs the money.

John McClain

April 21st, 2011
4:24 pm

Hey “Skreet”, I have 2 SUV’s, 1 large and 1 med, and have owned some form of full-size SUV going back to mid 90’s. Yes it is my decision to drive them, it’s your decision not to drive one, which is your deal, but until I start asking to borrow money for gas then I suggest you keep your econo box opinions to yourself. Thanks for playing!

Fletch

April 21st, 2011
4:24 pm

Centrist – “It does NOT take 20 years to produce oil when there are rigs and workers unemployed due to the embargo.’

You’re right, but it does take refineries to produce gasoline. Since no new ones have been built in over a decade, it will take some time to refine the product into useable fuel. In addition, just because the oil can be opbtained her, doesn’t mean it will be sold here. The oil rights still belong to the company that produces the oil, and they are free to market that product to whomever they so choose.

cs

April 21st, 2011
4:24 pm

if its “only” 3 cents then just take 3 cents off what it previously was, not add 3 more. but we all know somebody has to make up what delta etc aint paying. guess who dat iz?

had enough republican policy yet? me has and cant wait till 2012!!!!

Skreet

April 21st, 2011
4:26 pm

“Hey “Skreet”, I have 2 SUV’s, 1 large and 1 med, and have owned some form of full-size SUV going back to mid 90’s.”
Keep paying it forward to the Middle Easterners old man!

HENRY

April 21st, 2011
4:27 pm

Obama is a fool and doesn’t have a clue about economics. I wish he would go on one of his vacations and never return. Maybe back to his home in Kenya.

Fletch

April 21st, 2011
4:27 pm

Baccus – “Nobody could buy any gas to begin with.’

That actually was true around the metro areas. However, I tended to fill up outside the metro. Even though there was a BP 3 miles from my house, it was usually socked in with with drivers or out. However, when I would commute up to Brasleton, it was no problem stopping in and filling up.

John McClain

April 21st, 2011
4:28 pm

Well “Skreet” what do you drive my friend?

Fletch

April 21st, 2011
4:30 pm

HENRY – “I wish he would go on one of his vacations and never return. Maybe back to his home in Kenya.”

Could you clarify how that would affect a STATE mandated gas tax?

Brin

April 21st, 2011
4:31 pm

So let me ask just two questions…Are you better off now than you were 2 yrs. ago…? and ….How is that hope & change working out for you..We deserve the government we vote for…Forget skin color..and vote for your country.

E-Roll

April 21st, 2011
4:31 pm

Centrist – you have to agree that it takes years to build an oil rig and produce oil so the market today is not being affected by the ban on “new” oil drilling permits. There are several factors that have produced this price increase – demand for gas is up with the continued industrialization of China, India and other countries ( a billion new car owners can do that to the market), Middle East unrest has always affected the price of gas and it is doing it right now as well as speculative pricing that which has always said that because we travel more in the summer time, we have more demand and more demand increases the cost of any product. The current price of gas is not a result of a policy that has been in place for less than two years that will not show its affect until well into the future.

I am sure that all that I just wrote will not change your maind but I had to get it off my chest anyway, now enjoy your view of the trees and let me know when you find the forest. :-)

Skreet

April 21st, 2011
4:32 pm

1998 toyota corolla. I got rid of my SUV back in 1997 when gas was 85 cents a gallon because I knew this day would come. I prefer to use my money on other things than throwing it away on middle eastern fuel…but by all means keep consuming…it is making my Exxon stock skyrocket!

Fletch

April 21st, 2011
4:33 pm

Brin – “Are you better off now than you were 2 yrs. ago…? and ….How is that hope & change working out for you”

Yes, but it has nothing to do with Obama or any other politician Left or Right. And, not sure, becuase I don’t live my life based on campaign slogans.

Dan

April 21st, 2011
4:35 pm

Hey Jenkins, how about voting for substance and leadership( or lack of ) instead of skin color …

E-Roll

April 21st, 2011
4:36 pm

Brin – I am better off today than I was two years ago. I have had a salary increase and just got my bonus last week so hope and change is benefiting me fine because I didn’t over extend myself and I made contingency plans in case I lost my job which luckily didn’t happen.

Thanks for asking!

Fletch

April 21st, 2011
4:36 pm

Skreet – “it is making my Exxon stock skyrocket”

if you are into energy stocks, check out Brigham Exploration and Earthstone. They operate primarily out of the Williston Basin. The stocks are solid, and perform very very well!

Last Man Standing

April 21st, 2011
4:36 pm

Terence:

Thanks for the advice, but I think I will continue to loathe Hussein.

John McClain

April 21st, 2011
4:39 pm

I figured it was something along those lines, but you still have to put GAS in it and unless you have a well in your back yard YOU contribute to the Middle Easterners as I do. Oh and don’t worry even after filling up both trucks and the boat I still have plenty to whatever I please on other things too, like a road trip to my beach house in SC, and you guessed it, I will take my roomy tv filled truck! My stock is up also, so we’re both good there!

gouged again

April 21st, 2011
4:40 pm

I just watched a specail the other night that informed us that over 1 million barrels of oil a day {is that right?} come from canada {sand fields}. Why is it every time someone in the middle east farts, the price of gas goes up?

E-Roll

April 21st, 2011
4:41 pm

John McClain – I loved you in Die Hard I and II but the last two movies were too much for me, lol.

Fletch

April 21st, 2011
4:42 pm

gouged again – “canada {sand fields}.”

Also part of the Williston Basin. Seriously, there are some great investment opportunites outside the gulf fields! :)

GaBlue

April 21st, 2011
4:43 pm

I have a smallish-SUV that gets decent mileage, and have modified my lifestyle to reduce the number of days I take the car out of the garage. But I have to say to those (barren ones) who blast SUV drivers all the time: KIDS = CARPOOLING. Parents drive groups of kids around, and trade off that responsibility with other parents. If they play football, baseball, lacrosse, etc., the gear has to go somewhere, Sparky. The word “utility” means something to responsible parents, so just because you see one person in an SUV does not mean he or she is wasteful. And yes, we PAY for it.

John McClain

April 21st, 2011
4:44 pm

E-Roll, I understand no worries, had to do them to keep fueled up! lol………

John McClain

April 21st, 2011
4:46 pm

Thank you GaBlue, try doing all that kid and equipment hauling in Skreet’s 98 Corrola!

Shady Deal

April 21st, 2011
4:48 pm

Thanks for electing me suck3rs. Now with this new tax I can save my house. Oh by the way, I’ll just save a ton by gasing up in South Carolina….

lulu

April 21st, 2011
4:58 pm

Um, this is not new. Is it actually news to this many people?

Since I don’t have a gas-guzzling SUV or a 20-mile commute, it truly doesn’t affect me, but I’m seriously tired of listening to everyone whine about the price of gas.

jojo

April 21st, 2011
5:00 pm

GREED MARCHES ON.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 21st, 2011
5:02 pm

If your looking for a couple of GREAT energy related stocks to get into…check out Chevron CVX (great dividend and low PE ratio) and Schluberger SLB (good dividend a higher PE ratio but very good prospects)…Thank goodness something out there is working well!

USC GAMEC0CK

April 21st, 2011
5:03 pm

sorry, should have written you’re not your…again, my apologies.

lulu

April 21st, 2011
5:03 pm

Oh, and FYI, GaBlue: Kids do not equal SUV. My Civic gets me, my kids, my pets, and of our stuff everywhere we need to drive to get to – soccer, swim team, playground, etc. Within a few miles we usually opt for biking rather than driving – I can still carry everything we will need. Feel free to keep trying to justify it to yourself, but quit blaming your children.

acstas87

April 21st, 2011
5:06 pm

Republican, letting a tax hitting the middle class hardest go up? Georgia voted for him.

artyc

April 21st, 2011
5:06 pm

you voted for deal and you got the bums deal

GaBlue

April 21st, 2011
5:08 pm

lulu,

Who the heck are YOU, and why would I need (a) justify anything to YOU, or (b) blame my children because I chose to have them and engage them in activities that benefit their health and social skills?

I shopped carefully for my vehicle. I rallied for work-at-home days in my department, and now we all telecommute two days a week. I map out my errands for efficiency, take fewer trips, and carpool when necessary. AS A NATURE LOVING LIBERAL TREE HUGGER, I am happy to embrace the next generation of affordable, eco-efficient vehicles that meet my needs. I don’t need for forgiveness for finding balance, but you CAN bite the fleshy part of my behind if you like.

Centrist

April 21st, 2011
5:09 pm

Some FACTS (instead of just political posturing):

The price of oil is based on a world-wide market of supply and demand. Most of our domestic production of oil comes from deep wells in Gulf of Mexico. Almost four months after the administration’s moratorium was lifted in the Gulf of Mexico, the Department of the Interior has issued only three deepwater drilling permits. More than 100 drilling rigs in the Gulf lie idle (along with all of those jobs).

The U.S. is currently using only 85% of its oil refining capacity.

bob

April 21st, 2011
5:19 pm

If we are all driving Diesels, we’d use 20% less oil. Supply and Demand. If we all decreased our demand by 20%, prices would drop. So, go out, buy a diesel and help save our country from the Arabs.

Neal Kelley

April 21st, 2011
5:20 pm

While I know a lot of people are hurting. Our state government needs the revenue. With soooooooooooo many people out of work it is very important that we fund our government to ensure we have the money to create programs that produce jobs. The government does not have an endless supply of money. It has to come from somewhere.

Alicia

April 21st, 2011
5:20 pm

Sure, no one is state government had anything to do with raising the gas tax. It happened on its own. Shazzam !!!

realist

April 21st, 2011
5:30 pm

The Gulf drilling ban has absolutely nothing to do with current gas prices. Lack of crude oil is not the problem. The NYMEX delivery hub for WTI in Cushing, Oklahoma is almost full. High oil and gas prices are the result of a plumetting $ and the fear factor of major supply disruptions in the ME and NA. Saying the drilling ban has ANYTHING to do with this shows a complete lack of understanding on world energy markets. But let’s go ahead and keep slapping those “Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less” bumper stickers on our cars. You might as well put one next to it that says “Hi. I’m an idiot.”

Kay

April 21st, 2011
5:33 pm

Sigh..
The adjustment is written into the GA tax code. It’s automatic. The tax is adjusted twice a year and if during that time the price of gas increases or decreases by 25%, the gas tax will increase or decrease respectively. If the price does not increase or decrease by 25% then that part of the tax remains the same.

When Gov. Purdue suspended the gas tax in September of 2008, it put, at most, $20 back into the pocket of each gas buying Georgia resident – , but it cost the state about $75 million is gas tax revenue. That means that the budget for the following year was based on 11 months of gas tax revenue instead of 12 months, ultimately affecting projects that following year. Plus we missed out on capturing that tax from truckers, tourists, thoses driving through on vacation etc.

It was a feel good gesture that in the long run did more harm than good.

Centrist

April 21st, 2011
5:41 pm

@ Realist – a dose of reality: As of 2007, Cushing holds 5 to 10 percent of the total U.S. crude inventory. On April 13, 2007, the now-defunct Lehman Brothers released a study which claimed that WTI Crude at Cushing is no longer an accurate gauge of world oil prices.

Supply and demand is real, and prices are so reflected. We need more domestic and non-cartel production to counter cartel oligopoly pricing.

Alicia

April 21st, 2011
5:44 pm

Did it write itself into the tax code? According to the governor’s spokesman, no one in the state did it.

Aquagirl

April 21st, 2011
5:44 pm

“Most of our domestic production of oil comes from deep wells in Gulf of Mexico.”

This interesting factoid brought to you by Centrist’s hindquarters, the center of his pure crap production.

John K

April 21st, 2011
5:48 pm

Taxed Enough Already!!! Yeeeehaaaawwwww!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Last Man Standing

April 21st, 2011
5:51 pm

This is just helping to get the gas prices where Hussein really wants them. Hussein has never made a secret of the fact that he thinks the U.S. pays too little for energy. In the absence of a practical alternative to the internal combustion engine for autos, he is continuing his plan of increasing fuel prices. This little 3 cent per gallon incease is insignificant compared to what Hussein has coming down the pile – aimed directly at you.

Don’t let any of this upset you rabid Hussein supporters. Be sure and vote more misery for yourself in 2012!

“For starters, Bush never said he was in favor of high gas prices. Obama, however, did:

CNBC’s John Harwood: So could the (high) oil prices help us?

Barack Obama: I think that I would have preferred a gradual adjustment. The fact that this is such a shock to American pocketbooks is not a good thing. But if we take some steps right now to help people make the adjustment, first of all by putting more money in their pockets, but also by encouraging the market to adapt to these new circumstances more rapidly, particularly U.S. automakers…

The obvious inference is that Obama doesn’t object to $4 a gallon gas per se, just how rapidly the price increased. Most Americans hate it and want gas prices to go down as rapidly as possible. Obama wants to “help people to make the adjustment” to “new circumstances.”

Angry Georgian

April 21st, 2011
5:54 pm

Get Nathan Deal and the rest of dem dam theives out of office

Last Man Standing

April 21st, 2011
5:55 pm

bob:

You checked the price of diesel lately? You increase the demand and the price will rise.

Centrist

April 21st, 2011
5:56 pm

Will Jones - Atlanta Jeffersonian Exegesis

April 21st, 2011
5:56 pm

Simple economics: The price of gas is going up, like nearly everything else, because our currency is being debased/inflated from the “Wall Street Bailout’s” printing of trillions of new dollar bills to shore up the failing unconstitutional “Federal” Reserve Bank John Kennedy’s Exec. Order 11,110 ended, and to enrich the “Government” Sachs crowd fascisticly running our government in conjunction with the Fifth Column treasonous faction which financed the rise of Nazism; assassinated Pres. Kennedy and Dr. King to send us to die in papal Vietnam; and cheated a homosexual (lover’s name is James Guckert – look it up) draft-dodger into the WH to commit 9/11 (Viz. “The New Pearl Harbor,” Griffin, Ph.D. – Read it, it’s a free download from Google Scholar).

To top it all off, the draft-dodging, “My Pet Goat”-reading closet-queen, whose administration had Tennessee Trash Stanley McChrystal’s black ops unit drill three rounds into Pat Tillman’s forehead within the circumference of a half-dollar coin, now owns the gas and diesel tank-farm distribution network once owned by the Queen of England and the Rockefellers (for whom Bushes have fronted since Standard Oil was “built” on unredressed “murder and arson” in 1870’s Cleveland).

Nice “tip” for “giving” them all that Iraqi oil and re-starting the Afghan heroin trade with our blood, eh?

Hmmm…Who are the “locals” not doing anything about the overt treason in Washington…and in fact laying greater taxes onto the wronged People? The Demublicans AND the Republicrats: the best “government” money can buy.

Ventura 2012
Death for Treason
Annuit Coeptis

Seems the Egyptians are acting like better Americans than we are.

Last Man Standing

April 21st, 2011
5:59 pm

Centrist:

“More than 100 drilling rigs in the Gulf lie idle (along with all of those jobs).”

If my memory is working, that is about 70,000 unemployed because of Hussein’s Department of the Interior.

Will Jones - Atlanta Jeffersonian Exegesis

April 21st, 2011
6:01 pm

Pumping oil from the Gulf has nothing to do with our having failed to hang Bush and Cheney for treason.

More tax sludge

April 21st, 2011
6:01 pm

What ever happens to the rich on the federal level will trickle down to the middle and lower classes at the state level. No one is spared from the tax sludge thrown against the backs of citizens.

Will Jones - Atlanta Jeffersonian Exegesis

April 21st, 2011
6:02 pm

The spiraling concentration of wealth now taking place in America puts the lie to your assertion “mts.”

Last Man Standing

April 21st, 2011
6:03 pm

Will:

Did you forget to take your meds again? I think I saw the black helicopters headed your way . . .

Will Jones - Atlanta Jeffersonian Exegesis

April 21st, 2011
6:05 pm

“Ad hominem” when you got nothing else, eh Limbaugh-good-buddy?

Wondering

April 21st, 2011
6:06 pm

All of you protesting the high taxes in Georgia, leave. This is the second lowest state in the country for per capita taxes. Our DOT turned in the worst report on its road quality in several decades and the reason is the low amount collected through the gas tax. I frankly want them to collect the tax and fix the roads. Its cheaper than the major car repair bills due to poor roads.

As for those still without jobs, why are you using so much gas? I hear the rumors about the unemployed that are working under the table. That is the type of thing that hurts the law abiding taxpayer. Not a 2.8 cent per gallon increase that effectively allows the DOT to purchase gas for its own purposes. Yes, their costs have risen as well.

And another thing …

flat broke

April 21st, 2011
6:06 pm

We gotta help out Obama n’ em!!

Thomas

April 21st, 2011
6:10 pm

My business that requires transportation of goods to market will be affected when the State raises the tax on fuel by 2.8 cents but as always the consumer will pay in the end because I am going to raise my price by 3 cents on the goods to cover the States pro-business agenda.

Donaldo

April 21st, 2011
6:15 pm

Just want to remind you that all this talk about gas prices occurred after our leader, Mr. O, took us into Libya. Guess, no one was concerned about the unintended consequences….they are what they are until each of us demands more from our leaders..right now…it appears we can not agree to disagree…a sad state…one that can be manipulated folks. Wake up!!

N....

April 21st, 2011
6:15 pm

Bobby…..don’t forget the helicopter he so often takes from Captial Hill to the Governors mansion…He doesn’t care about us. OMG I hate to see that thing firing up in the afternoon and landing in the mornings. It just burns me up to see him taking advantage of our tax dollars. Why doesn’t he ride MARTA???!!!!!

janet

April 21st, 2011
6:28 pm

I would like to see $1.00 per gallon tax and all of that extra money spent on mass transit. Right now we borrow money from China so we can pay Saudi Arabia for our oil Both of those countries hate the USA. China, India are building state of the art rapid rail. The cost of fuel isn’t about who is not drilling off of the shores of the US but because of incresed demand by the emerging middle classes in China, India and Brazil. The 3 major emerging economies want it now. The oil companies would have you think that it is about supply . It is about demand and we need to find alternative sources of energy (not ethanol- that is a complete joke and a subsidy to our corn farmers who don’t need another one) so that we are can tell Saudi Arabia to take a hike in the desert. I will never forget the photo of Pres Bush holding hands with his Saudi prince friend. That was not just a photo op or a symbolic gesture. That was 2 oil greased hands joining together for the downfall of this country. Ever wonder why Cheney held secret energy talks at the White House and refused to disclose who attended and what they discussed?

Last Man Standing

April 21st, 2011
6:29 pm

N….

“Why doesn’t he ride MARTA???!!!!!”

Maybe he heard about the attack that took place on MARTA, isn’t “packing heat” and is worried about lawsuits if he “hit” an innocent bystander?

Monglorp

April 21st, 2011
6:29 pm

This is just one more reason to vote out every last one of them!

Aquagirl

April 21st, 2011
6:35 pm

Centrist, a direct quote from the article:

“The Gulf provides about 30 percent of US Oil production.”

And that’s ALL the gulf not just deepwater production.

That’s right the ENTIRE gulf, including rigs in two feet of water or two thousand. Now, why do you think 70% of our oil comes from deepwater gulf rigs? Are you still celebrating 4/20? That would be the kindest explanation for why you’re babbling such obvious idiocy. Being a completely gullible tool for Glenn Beck types would be more likely, but I’m feeling charitable today.

Will Jones - Atlanta Jeffersonian Exegesis

April 21st, 2011
6:36 pm

China doesn’t hate the U.S.. The “Empire” wants to “divide and conquer” us by sowing hatred for them the same way it did with Russia…America’s natural ally against Rome and the Knights of Malta: two of their hated tzars were members.

Centrist

April 21st, 2011
6:44 pm

@ Aquagirl

Deep water Gulf production is the biggest single domestic source for the U.S. It is down 20% since the embargo and lack of drilling permits. Since the U.S. is the biggest consumre or oil, this is having an affect on world oil prices and the cost of U.S. gasoline. That is the thrust of this blog.

Calling me names and trying to link me to Glenn Beck does not help you win debate points. I sometimes agree with you on your arguments over right wing politics, but your debating style hurts your credibility.

Aquagirl

April 21st, 2011
6:55 pm

Centrist—for god’s sake YOU just linked to an article saying:

“The Gulf provides about 30 percent of U.S. oil production, and 11 percent of daily natural gas output.”

…And you still say deepwater Gulf production accounts for 70% of our oil production.

Please, spare me the concern-troll blather about my credibility. Focus that energy on improving your literacy and the kind of basic math that teaches you part of 30% does not equal 70%, even when you repeat it like a brain-damaged parrot. (No offense intended to brain-damaged parrots for the comparison.)

double

April 21st, 2011
6:58 pm

Will you are on target.Few realize who runs this country.

Centrist

April 21st, 2011
6:59 pm

Aquagirl – you have a hard time comprehending. Being the largest single source is a plurality – not a majority. Focusing on the semantics and not the result, along with your insults has so disconnected your posts that I will ignore them in the future.

gatorman770

April 21st, 2011
7:03 pm

I’ve always thought the very idea of the pending new regional sales tax for transportation that will be charged on everything we buy in lieu of just fuel sucked. Georgia has one of the lowest fuel tax and it should be increased a few cents to fund transportation improvements instead of taxing every friggin’ item we buy! I’ll be voting “Hell No” when the regional transportation comes to vote next election.

double

April 21st, 2011
7:03 pm

About 40% oil is domestic.Next Canada,Mexico,Saudia Arabia,then several smaller % are imported.

Aquagirl

April 21st, 2011
7:12 pm

Centrist, that’s the most pathetic attempt at saving face I’ve ever seen. And there’s been a lot of them among you talk-radio zombies.

Ignoring me would be the smart move, since every future reply would include “THE GULF PROVIDES ABOUT 30% OF U.S. OIL PRODUCTION.” That would remind me you are capable of shameless denalism. I know, it’s all the rage amongst your friends. It’s not even considered abnormal or illogical thinking, as long as you can blame some democrat/liberal/whoever you hate today.

I do, however, reserve the right to post this to other people, who might mistake you, however momentarily, for someone with the slightest connection to reality. Such a display of dumb@$$ery is absolutely priceless.

Big Spender

April 21st, 2011
7:33 pm

I love my big beautiful gas guzzler that I have to fill up every couple days to live in the burbs! Have fun on Marta concrete pounders! LOL

Bubba

April 21st, 2011
7:41 pm

OH MY GOD three sents, I cant afford my gas anymore please guvernor deal save me! I need to drive my huge Lexus SUV all over the suburbs because I chose not to live close to a MARTA station and 25 miles away from my wurk. But I can afford such a bigger house way out here in Cumming and it only takes me one hour each way to drive to wurk

retiredds

April 21st, 2011
8:00 pm

None of you better drive in other parts of the world where gas is $8-$9/gallon (Canada for example), and has been for years. Your government subsidy is working for you, so don’t cry about a measly 3 cents/gallon.

If anyone had been paying attention to the (world) demand-side of the equation you would realize there is no way gas prices can go down. Gas is a commodity folks and the price is set in the FREE market, isn’t that what all the libertarians and conservative Republicans have been screaming about. Let the market set the prices of everything. So there you have it, live with it.

JACKIE

April 21st, 2011
8:01 pm

the increase should be at least a quarter.People are going to pay it anyway and we could build some awesome roads.

Kay

April 21st, 2011
8:08 pm

Considering that those who buy gas use the road and contribute to the wear and tear as well as the congestion, doesn’t it make sense to apply a tax to gasoline? Do you expect to use a road and not be required to contribute to the upkeep or improvement to it? DOT’s budget is paid for by gas tax revenue, and the current administration’s quest to force us to buy feul efficient cars will actually decrease the amount of tax collected because less gas will be purchased in the long run.

I consider myself part of the tea party movement, but a certain level of taxation is necessary to fund and maintain transportation. We get a good deal for the money we pay.

And Alicia, what the Governor’s spokesman said was that it was automatic. And he’s right. Obviously, the legislature wrote the tax code, but this 3 cent increase didn’t come from a recent vote, rather it was an adjustment made through a process that’s been in place for years.

Eric

April 21st, 2011
8:10 pm

Whatever the rationale, additional taxes of any kind during this recession is insane. Shame on our legislature for not protecting its citizens!

Howard

April 21st, 2011
8:15 pm

If you don’t like the gas prices, stop buying pickup trucks and SUVs. My hybrid hyundai sonata gets over 50 miles to the gallon…sometimes almost 60mpg. Stand up for yourself, tell the politicians with investments in oil to go to hell. Buy the most fuel efficient cars on the market today. I’m not complaining. I hardly use any gas! Gas will be over $5 a gallon soon, and nobody will help us except ourselves.

Shady Deal

April 21st, 2011
8:21 pm

Can’t believe you guys thought I wouldn’t do this to you…LOL! Wait til you see what’s next up my sleeve.

findog

April 21st, 2011
8:26 pm

Centrist,
President Bush had the energy department study allowing unlimited exploitation of gulf oil, the republican’s running the energy department found that it would have so little effect that it was not a productive alternative to asking the Saudi’s for more oil.
Our miniscule reserves will not alleviate the supply/demand problem; unfortunately your miniscule brain cannot comprehend fact from fox fallacy…

Kay

April 21st, 2011
8:26 pm

Gatorman770, the gas tax revenue has and will continue to decrease as we drive more fuel efficient cars. We need another source of revenue for transportation funding, and a regional sales tax makes the most sense. Everything you purchase made its way into a store by some mode of transportation. And before that, it was delivered to a distribution center, a wholesaler, a warehouse, a farm, etc.

A regional tax makes sense because whether or not you own a car, you benefit from the existing infrastructure if only by the goods you buy. And those who don’t own cars, but travel by bus or train still benefit from roads and will now contribute toward their upkeep.

Don’t be so quick to judge the regional sales tax. It makes more sense than you think.

findog

April 21st, 2011
8:34 pm

Kay,
The regional transportation tax is just a way for the GOP to say they didn’t raise taxes to build or maintain the roads we need.
Nothing more, nothing less; typical political dodge of responsibility
VOTE NO ON TSPLOST, make the politicians do their jobs

David M

April 21st, 2011
8:47 pm

I did not vote for Deal or Slick Roy. Deal tried to make a deal with the councilmen in Gainesville to expand his junk yard. The good man didn’t make it to the finals.

CM

April 21st, 2011
8:49 pm

The gas tax is a usage charge for using the roads the government builds and maintains. It is a dedicated source of revenue that is only used for roads/transit projects. It has to be high enough to fund all road projects (plus we get federal dollars of course from the federal gas tax). Road/transit projects should not be funded out of general tax revenue. If they need to be higher to pay for roads, then fine. If the state does not need the additional revenue, then they should not be higher.

Tax revenues from gas tax decrease dramatically as the price of gas increases. But we still need about the same amount of money to fund road projects and maintenance. Adding an additional 3 cents when gas prices reach a certain level helps ensure that there is adequate funding for road projects. It may seem unfortunate and unfair when the economy is not great and gas prices are high, but it’s reality. The money has to come from somewhere, and it ought to be from people that actually drive and based on how much they drive.

we are the fools.

April 21st, 2011
8:52 pm

If any of you do not understand the goverment. you are fools.They say that the price goes up because they go to the winter blend of fuel, then they say it has to go up again, when they change over to summer blend.Which cost more, summer or winter blend? This crap started when they started unleaded gas. Lead was added to gas for a lubericant. It was not a byproduct. They went up almost 100% for unleaded gas. The fools bought it, wow they are taking the lead out and saving the world, we will pay double to do it. The price of anything to do with fuel doubled. cars, parts, etc. Now they are going top put some more piles of crap on our lunch plate and most people are going to buy it up and eat it up.

David M

April 21st, 2011
8:53 pm

Neither Deal or Slick Roy were adequate to be governor. The one good man didn’t make it to the finals. Barnes proved his behavior years ago, and Deal had tried to make a deal with the Gainesville councilmen about expanding his junkyard.

CARL

April 21st, 2011
9:03 pm

none of you have a clue about whats going on in this once great country,do you?

double

April 21st, 2011
9:22 pm

@Carl I’m all ears.

Rural Education

April 21st, 2011
9:39 pm

What makes any of you think that even if we drilled every possible hole for oil that it would make the price go down? Oil companies are in business to make money, they could really care less if the price goes up. There are no laws that say oil found in the U.S. (Anwar) has to be used for domestic purposes. The market is working just like it should. We need to quit buying this “if we make the conditions better for big business they will create jobs” mantra. They will create profit, buy oil stocks.

Aquagirl

April 21st, 2011
9:44 pm

Carl, we have many well-informed posters here—like the d00d who wants more lead in our brains, presumably so we can all be as smart as him. I mean, who’s bothered by brain-damaging crap spewing into the atmosphere? It’s not like kids will be affected by that or anything.

You should cower before such sheer brilliance.

bronco

April 21st, 2011
10:05 pm

Hey Roderick your pres is HALF WHITE and guess what I don’t like the black half or the white half.

RGB

April 21st, 2011
10:17 pm

It amazes me when leftists take umbrage at people who drive SUVs. I’ve never owned one myself but why should I care what somebody else drives as long as they are paying for it.

These same libs are adamant that women should be able to exercise their “choice” but are unwilling to let someone “choose” to drive an SUV. I suppose they believe driving an SUV is worse than aborting a baby.

Of course the liberati never have had a monopoly on logic and reason–all emotions.

RGB

April 21st, 2011
10:26 pm

THIS IS OBAMA’S ENERGY PLAN:

GASOLINE PRICES: “I think that I would have preferred a gradual adjustment ”

ELECTRICITY RATES: “You know, when I was asked earlier about the issue of coal, uh, you know — Under my plan of a cap and trade system, electricity rates would necessarily skyrocket.”

He’s keeping his promises–just like you people wanted.

Enjoy!!!

Lol

April 21st, 2011
10:31 pm

The people who are “struggling” to pay another $.03/gal probably have a negative effective tax rate and are driving a nice gas guzzler bought with their tax refund. It’s nice of them to chip in.

luangtom

April 21st, 2011
11:04 pm

This tax-rate bill passed long before Deal was voted in as governor. It is just now being implemented due to the price-ceiling the bill carries with it.

People are worried at $4.00 per gallon. Well, it has been these prices and higher elsewhere in the world and they have survived with it. We will, too. Granted, many of them do not drive the vehicles we do, but they have survived and have altered their choices in automobiles in the process. I drive a Mustang with a V8. I knew going in that prices for gas would be going up. I sacrifice in other areas to keep it on the road because I enjoy driving it. I make accommodations to compensate for the higher gas-prices. People have to learn to adapt.

double

April 21st, 2011
11:14 pm

We need leaders-The Bush clan not worth a ________The one we have now is following same path.I care less the label-Why are we lobbing TH missiles @over 1M each,giving 25Mil.now furnishing drones,and eventually boots on ground to Lybia.Are they a threat to us?We are beyond broke$ we are on the brink of default,bankruptcy.Can Obama do this alone?I think not.Now leave the labels out,and give me an explanation,please

[...] points to a Savannah Morning News article about how Georgia’s motor fuel tax is set to rise on May 1st. The tax in Georgia is a flat 7.5-cents per gallon, plus an amount based on price. The part based on [...]

yuzeyurbrane

April 21st, 2011
11:57 pm

It used to be that 3 cents a gallon seemed like a lot of money. Now it is peanuts when compared to the amounts being ripped off by speculators.

Bob in Suwanee

April 22nd, 2011
3:38 am

I think a lot are lacking any idea why gas prices are so high. Unfortunately, it is not because of the drilling moratorium in the Gulf, and it isn’t because of not tapping into Anwar. It is this administration’s monetary policy. When Obama took office, gold was worth around 800 paper dollar bills. It is now worth 1500 paper dollar bills. The dollar has devalued, oil is traded on the international market in dollars. The devaluation of the dollar is what is causing the higher price for gasoline. Until the Fed stops printing money (Quantitative Easing I and QE II) the dollar will continue to deflate. You don’t need an MBA to figure this out, just look at the charts for commodities and you will see that for the most-part, they are on a steady uphill climb. The Fed’s backs are against the wall, they are going to have to have the debt ceiling raised in order not to default on current debts. Once they do raise the debt ceiling they will have to print more money further devaluing the dollar. Disaster looms on the horizon, don’t say you weren’t warned.

Sambopete

April 22nd, 2011
4:00 am

Well I wake up and read the words of this guy Torrence. How can a normal thinking person think that Messiah Obama has done a good job. History will deal with him harshly. He’s the biggest liar, deceiver, incompetent, and ignorant President in history – show me a worse one. Seems like the only supporters he has are blacks, Nanny state freeloaders, and far left loonies.

rid0617

April 22nd, 2011
4:38 am

After putting the last of my CHANGE in the gas tank, I have given up all HOPE. Until we do something about speculators this will never change.

American

April 22nd, 2011
6:03 am

@ Fletch you seem to have a brain so try this problem, if it took the Bush’s 16 years to F..k up the economy (three wars!) how many years will it take to get it back to Clinton (no wars & a government cash surplus)? You may wish to get a clue to try to get the answer.
Look People-Americans why in the hell do you think the country will get any better with such hidden agendas from the people we put into office? GA gas taxes going up 3%, Deal in no Purdue. At least Sonny knew about the working class and the poor in this State. Deal well did you notice how he ignores anyone beneath is class, it doesn’t matter if your Black, Latina or White!
Has anyone notice the crime rate? It’s not that the police aren’t doing their jobs it’s that people are hungry and homeless. So instead of flapping your gums try to be “part of the solution not part of the problem”.
So here’s a thought let’s make all elected officials ACCOUNTABLE for their actions to help the people. PEACE

Capt Bush Titanic

April 22nd, 2011
6:24 am

As usual, republicans try to turn an article about a republican state govt raising taxes into an a “blame obama” attack.

In obama’s first year, he approved offshore drilling in many areas which upset many of the environmental activists. It was only after BP polluted our ocean did he impose a temporary ban which has been lifted.

For those of you blaming obama for this mess:

Bush’s first day = 5.7 trillion debt…..ZERO deficit…..great economy

Bush’s last day = 10.6 trillion debt….1.3 TRILLION deficit…..great depression

You decide

By the way, president Bush could of VETOED any spending but never did.

If you try to blame the mess on democrats, please name one law they passed in 2007 that caused the depression.

Sources:
Debt: US Treasury Dept. – (search for “debt to the penny” for proof)
Clinton Deficit: CBO – Congressional Budget Office – Historical Data (search for “cbo doc10871 historical” for proof)
Bush Deficit: CBO – Congressional Budget Office Testimony before Congress – (search for “cbo doc9958 testimony” for proof)

you must be high if you think taxes are

April 22nd, 2011
6:27 am

Look, the price of gas is really high and may go higher. As the world climbs out of the recession prices will rise due to increased demand. Also, gas prices are pushed upward due to the rapid growth in China and India. Lastly, the biggest current factor in the price of gas is the speculation. Traders “fear” that supplies will be hampered due to the unrest in northern Africa and middle east. The supplies haven’t changed appreciably yet, but that hasn’t stopped the speculative frenzy.

Regarding our gas tax, it seems to me we have it backwards. The portion of the tax that adjusts based on the price of gas should drop as prices rise. This would at least have a marginal effect on moderating the price.

Capt Bush Titanic

April 22nd, 2011
6:32 am

Centrist,

Thanks for the link to http://www.mrc.org, which is a FAKE organization founded by republican conservative activists and recevies millions of dollars in funding from ExxonMobil.

No surprise that they attack obama.

It is sad that republicans create so many fake news websites, fake think tanks, and fake news channels.

Me

April 22nd, 2011
6:35 am

……I’m gonna change my name to Delta then I’ll get the tax break on my fuel and I’ll not have to move to another state……

Jim T

April 22nd, 2011
6:39 am

the comment by Roderick T. Jenkins April 21st, 2011 3:11 pmObama is my black president!!!!!

tell you what roderick, all the blacks and liberals who just love this pos can have him as your ‘leader’.
the rest of us will chose some else.
let’s see who fares better. ok?

larry

April 22nd, 2011
6:46 am

OBAMA WILL SAVE US ALL- HE IS AMERICAS WHITEST PRESIDENT-RAISED IN KANSAS BY HIS WHITE MOTHER AND WHITE GRANDPARENTS AFTER BEING ABANDONED BY HIS WORTHLESS AFRICAN AMERICAN FREELOADING FATHER- HOW MUCH WHITER CAN YOU GET?I HOPE THE PRICES KEEP GOING UP ON GAS , THAT WAY POOR PEOPLE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO AFFORD IT AND THAT WILL LEAVE MORE FOR PEOPLE WHO WORK AND WILL INSURE THAT THE LIMITED SUPPLY OF FUEL WILL LAST THAT MUCH LONGER IN THE FUTURE

The Colonel

April 22nd, 2011
6:54 am

Well, there goes my Kroger’s 3cent savings at the pump.

Name (required)

April 22nd, 2011
6:56 am

Repeal the law of supply and demand!

Steve

April 22nd, 2011
7:23 am

Muletrain is correct. Just more money for those manma’s sitting at home pumping out babies on welfare. Thanks to our great president for that.

Buzz G

April 22nd, 2011
7:30 am

Futures trading has as much to do with the price of gas as Vegas betting has to do with the winner of the Super Bowl. The current high prices are the result of free market interplay of supply and demand. Obama and the Democrats have reduced supply by shutting down off shore drilling and also blocking the construction of the new pipeline coming down from the Canadian tar sands. These high prices are manufactured by Obama and now he and his gang of clowns are trying to blame “speculators.” The American people have been dumbed down to the point where he might just get away with it.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
7:35 am

1. You got to give it up for Clinton because he did balance the budget even if I was paying more in taxes; but he should have cut spending big time then he would have been one of the best ever…except one big problem…he authorized the no money down, no job necessary for a home loan and opened the door for our big bubble bursting 10 years later….of course he was gone by then.

2. Bush was a complete failure – huge budget deficit and top 2% laughing all the way to the bank…he also authorized one of the largest government expansions in the history of the USA when he federalized the TSA…WHAT AN IDIOT…now all those losers get government pensions that all of us pay for….Bush got us into Iraq…for what?? 5000 Americans are dead and 25000 have lost parts of their bodies and we the taxpayers are on the hook for about $2 TRILLION Dollars…And then to top it off…the economy goes straight in the tank thanks to his policies and he had a chance to address the oncoming housing bubble before it burst but no he was a simpleton who could not see it coming oh, yeah…Bush…a COMPLETE FAILURE.

3. Now we have the current administration…when he was elected I grabbed up some oil stock and oil related stock because our new president wanted higher gas prices and alternative energy…that means the price of oil is going to go way up and it did…my stocks are WOW!! but my government SUCKS and taxes and spends like there is no tomorrow to worry about….the pied piper is coming and he looks alot like CHINA and OPEC.

4. One last thing…if you listen to Donald Trump talk about the issues and don’t get caught up in the birth certificate stuff….HE IS RIGHT ON THE MONEY SO PUT HIM IN OFFICE!!! I can only hope he runs for office so I can vote for him…if he does I will vote for him.

GOD SAVE MY COUNTRY….PLEASE!!

Corey

April 22nd, 2011
7:41 am

Paul, what negative impact did “Cash For Clunkers” have on you personally? As I recall local dealers were giddy to see their sales spike, and people who took advantage of the program were happy to get new cars and get out of their fuel wasting chug-a-longs. What negative impact, Paul? We’re waiting. Paul? Paul?

beware

April 22nd, 2011
7:41 am

Republican’s talk against taxes, but at the end of the day, they are no different than the democrats. At least I85 is becoming a much more enjoyable drive at gas goes up.

Allyanaz

April 22nd, 2011
7:43 am

Now everyone who voted for Nathan Deal will say “I don’t know what’s happened.” They did that when George Bush raped the pocketbooks of lower and middle-class workers. This serves EVERYONE right for voting Democrat or Republican. You choose sides rather than looking at the issues, sort of like it was a football game.

beware

April 22nd, 2011
7:50 am

GOD SAVE MY COUNTRY….PLEASE!!

Get Real!

independent

April 22nd, 2011
8:01 am

The economy in the rest of the country is finally improving from the devastation of eight ruinous Republican years of president and 6 horrible years of a Republican congress. GA is lagging behind the rest of the country. Why? Ten corrupt years of Republican statehouse and legislative control in Georgia. Complain all you want. You voted for them.

capt. caveman

April 22nd, 2011
8:02 am

What do you mean they didn’t vote to raise the tax.
I believe that’s what they did when this law was first put in the books.
They voted on it.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
8:03 am

God would be the collective us in that statement so it is very real…as only we can do anything about our situation.

Ayn Rand UGA

April 22nd, 2011
8:08 am

Hey so-called conservatives. Why blame the government for free market issues? The prices are what the market will bear. The government does not ration gas. If you love economic freedom, then accept it when it does not fall in your favor. Sounds more like populism than conservatism.

A Conservative Voice

April 22nd, 2011
8:15 am

@Terence

April 21st, 2011
3:45 pm
Hello, everyone. First I would like to say that we need to stop with all the dislike for Obama. Obama is a great president. He did not get us in the mess.

Folks, be careful, be very careful…….they walk among us

John Brown

April 22nd, 2011
8:20 am

America is the only oil-producing nation that allows private industries to pump and refine our oil, get billions of dollars in tax breaks, and then sell OUR natural resource back to us at the price they set! This is why the idea of more drilling in the U.S. gulf or Alaska, etc., is a moot arguement. It is based on the faulty premise that oil is sold on a free market and more oil will create competition and supply that lowers prices. But oil is not a free market, it is a collusion of oil producing countries and companies that set the price and manipulate production. So more drilling in the U.S. would have no effect for us, in fact, a large share of oil drilled and refined in this country is exported to other countries.

The real solution would be for the U.S. government to mandate that any company WE allow to drill and refine OUR natural resource must sell that oil back only to the U.S. and at price we determine. Companies would pay no taxes and still be allowed a fair profit margin based on market variables. Remember we are the third largest oil-producing country in the world…and how is that working out for us, so far?

Mike

April 22nd, 2011
8:23 am

To Brett Favre once a Falcon……Great question. My thoughts exactly. It’s an automatic thing? The state DIDN’T vote on it. HMMM, must have been the Easter Bunny or the Tooth Fairy.

R U Kidding Me?

April 22nd, 2011
8:24 am

I’m sick of all the whiners on this blog who moan and groan over a 3 cent increase in the sales tax on gasoline. Hell, gas has been increasing 3 cents A DAY for months and those increases go to the Arabs and the big oil companies. Where are all of the whiners when gas prices are up $1 over this time last year, and the only ones getting rich are OPEC and BP.

Georgia is 49th in per capita spending for transportation. Only Tennessee spend LESS per capita on its roads and bridges. Our transportation infrastructure is crumbling, and Georgia is losing it’s competitive edge. So gasoline goes up 3 cents a gallon on May 1st. If the damn news media hadn’t made a big deal about it, all of you whiners would never have even noticed. You would simply thought the Arabs just padded their bank accounts a little more. Let me ask the crybaby’s this question: Where would you rather see a 3 cent increase go? a) Into the pockets of OPEC and BP; or b) into GDOT account to build and maintain Georgia’s roads and bridges as restricted by law? It’s seems like a pretty easy one to answer for most non-crybabies.

MiltonMan

April 22nd, 2011
8:25 am

Obozo’s fault!

Asking?

April 22nd, 2011
8:28 am

If an increase is triggered by a 25% increase, what happens if there is a 25% decrease? Is the tax rescinded or keep in place?

MiltonMan

April 22nd, 2011
8:29 am

R U, please check again on your statement that GA is losing its competitive edge, If anything, GA is improving: right to work state, business friendly, low taxes, ATL airport, GaTech, etc.

I do some contract IT work with NCR. NCR moved here in 2009 after years in Ohio & the “oppressive” business enviroment in the state

MiltonMan

April 22nd, 2011
8:30 am

Asking – the GA gas tax rises & ebbs on the price of gas

gary

April 22nd, 2011
8:34 am

I hate to tell ya’ll, but up here in NC we pay anywhere from 12 to 15 cents higher per gallon than ya’ll do. We have the highest gas taxes as well as all other taxes period here in Carolina. NC for the first time in many years has a GOP controlled legislature and a pathetic Democratic Governor in Bev Perdue. The legislature has sent her at least 5 or 6 bills reducing spending and has vetoed them all. So before ya’ll complain think about us Tarheels.

Asking?

April 22nd, 2011
8:36 am

Just curious about the logic behind the increase. Because the overall % of taxes on fuel drops as the price rises therefore an increase must be initiated to keep the overall% at the same level? Interesting logic.

PO'ed Pundit

April 22nd, 2011
8:41 am

This is for Terrence,

What a tool! Oh boohoo! Leave Barack alone!

Honestly, I don’t care who started the economic problems we are in right now, I am more concerned about the actions of the “elected” officials that are supposed to be fixing the problem.

From your statement, I assume you voted for Obama. Hence the weak attempt to support him and the cronies that make up our leadership. Hey, it’s ok….really, he is trying his best right?

If you can get the finger pointing, self-serving democrats to actually work in a bipartisan effort…it might surprise you what could happen from both sides of the aisle.

We need a leader, and Obama is not that man. To be honest, neither side has a viable candidate at this point.

Get with the program…the people’s program and help make a difference.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
8:41 am

I recently drove from South Carolina to Texas on the interstate…believe me when I say, GEORGIA has the best roads period. BTW, I live in Cobb County so I know all about Georgia roads…I don’t mind the 3 cent increase because I know Georgia will use it to improve roads but overall spending should still be cut and I mean whacked way back.

Swede Atlanta

April 22nd, 2011
8:48 am

A 3 cent rise in the gas tax will hit middle class and low-income consumers hard when they are already struggling. Wages have stagnated for the past decade. Life savings have been lost due to the implosion in the housing market. Inflation for basic needs is soaring relative to wages.

I find it funny that there is no outrage by the same Cobb taxpayers that fought to defeat a renewal of the SPLOST of 1 cent that has been shown to benefit the citizens of Cobb. This is 3 times that amount and we will not see any benefit as a result of this other than the state will collect that additional money.

Kay

April 22nd, 2011
8:51 am

Asking?, yes, I believe the way the tax code is written, the tax would decrease if the price of gas decreased by 25%.

And Findog, would you prefer the legislators simply raise a tax statewide without your consent, or would you rather have the opportunity to see the list of transportation projects the tax would fund and then have the chance to speak with your vote? It’s not a way to dodge, it’s a way to give the citizens of that region the ability to decide if the benefit is worth the tax.

And if you vote no, that’s your choice. But by doing so, you forfeit the right to complain about transportation in your region. What is your solution for funding transportation?

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
8:51 am

I voted YES to the additional penny sales tax in Cobb. I drive in Cobb, that penny does a lot of good….but I will vote NO to the Regional sales tax.

Aquagirl

April 22nd, 2011
8:52 am

Asphalt is a petroleum byproduct. Generally if the price of oil goes up, so does the cost of building and resurfacing roads. Raising taxes makes sense–unless you’re a Republican. Then it’s all about getting as much as you can without paying for it.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
8:53 am

Like I said…grab some CVX and SLB stock…look them up…grab them NOW.

Asking?

April 22nd, 2011
8:53 am

To carry this logic further, if the price of gas rises to say around $5 per gallon then to $6.25 then to $7.75 then to $ $9.50 the State of Georgia will have the right to raise the tax by another $.12 +/- which will approximately double the tax on gas? Curious. The DOT will be flush. They will hire many new people and we will be able to reduce the unemployment problem in the state. The newly employed will spend more money and buy more gas. We are saved! Oops! Forgot one thing, DOT is a state facility and we would all be working for the state. Curious?

Hmmmmmm

April 22nd, 2011
8:54 am

Same old Same old everyday…. When are you people going to get a clue about your politicians…. Republican or Democrat, it makes no difference. They are all crooks!

Terence,

Good grief man, just wake up…. Obama no matter what color his skin is, is simply in over his HEAD!

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
8:56 am

Obama has as much white blood running through his veins as he does black blood…makes him a perfect fit for the USA doesn’t it??

CTK

April 22nd, 2011
9:02 am

@ DT….maybe the Oil Companies wouldn’t be making so much profit if Obama would re-open the off-shore drilling that he shut down as soon as he became president (about the only promise he has kept — can you say Guantanamo? No taxes on the middle class?). If I remember correctly, gas prices came down drastically back in 2008 right after Bush opened off-shore drilling. What a great move by our “president” Obama….shut down something that decreases independence on foreign entities and lowers the cost to your citizens. The Oil Comapanies will still make their money. Gas will be affordable for the citizens. But we have to keep the left-wing liberals who only care about handing out other people’s money happy. Yep. Great President. The answer is obvious. But instead we will keep depending upon the oil from Muslim nations….hey…wait a minute….

ROFL

April 22nd, 2011
9:03 am

you really want to know what bankers and politicans think of Americans and think how stupid we are??

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/bestoftv/2011/04/21/exp.arena.banker._wives.taibbi.cnn?hpt=T2

danny

April 22nd, 2011
9:04 am

Congratulations Georgia on gouging us even more!

Willis

April 22nd, 2011
9:13 am

Somehow those tax-hating Republicans find a way to increase tax revenues no matter what – they just call it something else or “reform.” All the time they are figuring out how to line their pockets at the expense of other people. Deal and his gang are no different – they are in this for themselves and no one else.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
9:17 am

Well Willis if that is what you think then U better wise up and get in the businesses that will benefit so you can get some of the action…my stocks are flying high…that makes me happy …..my government generally sucks…that makes me sad….hope my kids make good choices when they vote…because it will be a high price to pay when CHINA and OPEC start calling the shots in the USA…that day keeps getting closer…

Karma where is it

April 22nd, 2011
9:27 am

Where are all the protestors camera’s and news people that were around counting every body killed in Iraq and Afghan with charts tables and pictures& interviews with the protestors? Where are the protestors that were screaming it was Bush’s fault gas prices were soaring to help his oil buddies along withe the camera shots of the gas station price signs and graphs showing how it was all somehow Bush’s fault? Where are the protestors newsmen and cameras howling about the injustice at Guano, you know the one the fearless moron said he would close down as soon as he was elected? Where are the transcripts of Obama’s college career, the ones that that the media crucified Bush over because it showed he was a “C” student, (though it was shown his grades were better than Kerry’s!)

D man

April 22nd, 2011
9:29 am

Skreet – I now work from home almost everyday and my wife just got a job where she will be working from home too. She was driving 84 miles a day in a SUV. We don’t whine about this stuff, we make changes to keep it from affecting us.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
9:30 am

Well “Karma” go get your camera and get busy

DLink

April 22nd, 2011
9:34 am

30mpg here for about 30yrs. I’d hoped for more by now.

Are you the 47%

April 22nd, 2011
9:34 am

Osambo keeps repeating the mantra to raise the taxes on the rich, which has been shown over and over that no only would it hurt the economy but even if you taxed the “evil” rich at 100% and taxed the fortune 500 at 100% it still wouldn’t get rid of the deficit. However, never mentioned is the fact that 47% of the citizens pay ZERO –NONE—- NADA in Federal income tax! And many of them no only don’t pay any ,the true taxpayers send them a check for NOT paying! This is insanity!

Snafu

April 22nd, 2011
9:34 am

Angry Georgian..your response is typical of ignorant Georgians. Deal is a Republican..He aligns himself with Republicans so you can look no only at one party but all. That is what is wrong with ignorant slow people in Georgia. These CROOKED Politicans are from all sides, but its the Republicans who are so hell bent raising taxes in times when people trying to make ends meet. They are working and getting taxed to death.

Snafu

April 22nd, 2011
9:37 am

USC GAMEC0CK…Donald Trump!! LMAO what a LYING JOKE

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
9:41 am

1. Raise the tax on the top 2% (making $250,000) is only fair…and should be done ASAP. If I were in that category, I would not mind.

2. Cut spending in all categories because spending is totally out of control…don’t listen to the histerics about poor people, police, military (I am in the US Army BTW), teachers, firefighters or any other government employees ….because spending must be cut and then cut some more.

3. Those 2 things will make the USA better.

4. And take away the ability of all government workers to unionize and strike….fire them or put them in jail if they break the law…period….remember when Ronald Reagan fired the Air Controllers…that was masterful…we need more of that.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
9:42 am

Yes, I would vote for Donald Trump…”snafu”…you don’t know what you are talking about…the only joke is you bud.

Andy

April 22nd, 2011
9:51 am

Were they counting on this increase? Because this just acts like Bonus money if they were not. I don’t think the Governor understands the rage which this will promote.

“YOU DO NOT TAX YOURSELF OUT OF A RECESSION” – Economics 101, Day 1.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
9:55 am

It is never “politically good” to raise taxes so the legislature fixed that problem by tying the gas tax to the price of gas…they check it automatically every 6 months…we all know gas prices will rise over time regardless of the short term up and downs…the long term is a continuous upward push so our politicians tied the tax to the price knowing the tax would always head higher and higher and they would not have to vote to raise it or revisit the issue….smart on their part.

Gracie

April 22nd, 2011
10:06 am

Hey Roderick T. Jenkins………..You are just as much an idiot as your President. In fact, you are probably more stupid than he because of your explanations. At last he went to college, which more than anyone can say about you.

I would expect that you are short, fat & ugly, which is not a good combination in any race.

RECALL DEAL NOW

April 22nd, 2011
10:11 am

I think its time for a recall of Governor Deal. The first thing is that he is the governor of the state and needs to call for a freeze to all gas taxes. The thing that bothers me most is he has taken a stand on a 3 cent gas tax….but has been silent on jobs and the economy here in our state. The last thing I rememeber ajc writing is that it looks like now that the assembly is done for the year jobs will be put on the back burner till next year.

What a Crock Of DOO DOO. I voted for Deal…but this is not the deal dude.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
10:19 am

“Recall Deal Now” = IDIOT

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
10:20 am

“Gracie” = funny….that last line is funny dude but also very true.

woodrow

April 22nd, 2011
10:22 am

Secret taxes. Got to love that. It’s funny we have this truth in lending act that requires banks to make the fine print bolder, but when it comes to taxes, we have no idea how our creative tax system robs us.

bulleyboy

April 22nd, 2011
10:25 am

Terence, put down the kool-aid bud, Obama is a “tool” who backs down on his promises, has us waging one war after the other, did not raise taxes, dropped the “public option”, reneged on GTMO, lied about no “lobbyists”, has done nothing for alternative energy, got shown up by N.Korea, China, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, and on and on and on……. Objectivity Terence, you need to try it.

As for another gas tax while gas is rising, food is rising, fees for EVERYTHING are rising,incomes are dropping, and jobs have been lost, well…..only Government would pull that kind of a stunt. Yes it’s just .03 but there is a principle issue here, as well as the cumulative effect of all these “little” raises we are enduring. The Government hopes you don’t pay attention to what all these “little” raises add up to over the course of a year. Just remember folks, YOU voted for this.

The Thin Guy

April 22nd, 2011
10:30 am

Basic economics: Supply and Demand set the price of everything. You want gas prices to go down? Get more gas. Drill everywhere oil is known to be. Sure that will take years. But the sooner you start the sooner you will have the desired result. I have no intention of riding a bike on I-285. I can’t afford to ride MARTA (have you checked the prices of AK-47s, flame throwers, and bullet proof vests). Every time I put the nozzle into the car fuel entry port and watch my money go out of my pocket on the pump display, I see Øbungle with that self satisfied smirk. Get here 2012.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
10:31 am

Oh and another thing…the government revised how they measure inflation several years ago…so now the government will publish an inflation rate that is a real joke…it will show very low inflation but the reality is inflation is skyrocketing…and everyone just continues to support a president who is whisiling past the graveyard…really is pathetic…maybe I should say weaseling past the graveyard.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
10:33 am

I agree…2012 please get here….and vote for DONALD TRUMP…don’t laugh…he would do the right thing versus these politicians who lie, get elected…then continue the crap they always have…all the while my beloved country goes belly up.

Allie F.

April 22nd, 2011
10:34 am

Obama needs to be impeached….he is nothing but a liar, fraud, corrupt thug! He has decimated our economy, alienated our allies, embraced our enemies, refuses to protect our citizens and close our borders and has violated his oath of office. Maybe jail would be better!

bulleyboy

April 22nd, 2011
10:34 am

What “D man” really said was; ” Hey, when the man sticks it to us, we just roll over and take it”.

Logical thinker

April 22nd, 2011
10:35 am

Hey DT – Go back to school and learn economics. Most businesses hope to run and make money by haveing about a 20% margin. Meaning, that for every $100 in sales they have, they make $20. the “BIG Oil companies only operate at about an 8 – 10% profit margin. Meaning that for every $100 in sales they have, they make between $8 – $10. Im sure they would LOVE to operate at a 20% margin, but because of Govt restrictions, taxes, etc… they can’t. Yes, they have had record SALES, but who wouldn’t when the product you sell has seen such a huge increase in the last year. If Publix and Kroger started selling food for 50% more than what they sell it for now, then they would have RECORD sales months too. Thing is, the OIL companies profit MARGIN stays the same.

You Govt loving Libs get so mad at BIG Oil on their profits, but you fail to see that the FACT is, govt makes MORE MONEY than the refineries on every gallon of gas that is sold. Period!

In 2007 Exxon made $40 Billion dollars, but they paid $100 Billion in taxes and royalties. If you don’t like high gas prices, then don’t force the Oil companies to spend BILLIONS to do research and test drilling. We all know where some of the largest oil deposits in the world are…. Alaska!!! Go get it.

Oh and the US imports more oil from Canada than the middle east.

Lastly… Rodrick – You’re a perfect example of an Obama follower. Completely stupid. “Obama for 2011″ Yeah allright. whoo hoo. You go cast your vote in 2011. I’ll wait until 2012 when the election actually is happening and I’ll vote his @ss out of office. If it’s just skin color you like, then vote for Herman Cain. Remember, Obama is half white.

chillen

April 22nd, 2011
10:38 am

Yep. Kick us while we are down.

What kind of barbaric law raises taxes when the price of something goes up.

Repeal the law Gov. Deal.

Jb

April 22nd, 2011
10:48 am

muletrain @ 3:26 -

The gas tax goes towards highway construction and maintenance – it’s in the state constitution. I guess you could consider that a “social program” but I thought Conservatives loved roads, their “freedom,” and the silly notion that roads pay for themselves. Well, now you know they don’t.

Tom @ 4:08 – wow, you sound like the person you describe. Of course there were no “papers/grades” from Obama’s Harvard Law Review days because the Harvard Law Review is a JOURNAL, for which he was an EDITOR. That is very different from a CLASS that gives out grades! Duh.

Big drew 724

April 22nd, 2011
10:49 am

I think the 3% should go directly to education. Let’s give the people that educate our kids, a well earnd raise. Not only teachers, but all support staff as well.

Big drew 724

April 22nd, 2011
10:52 am

Allie F. only if we start with the Bushes first.

Biggerpicture

April 22nd, 2011
10:53 am

@commonsense ” If you can’t find an extra $.60 – $1.20 (per whole tank of gas), you have a bigger problem than a $.03 increase”. Nobody is crying over a .03 increase. They are upset about an ADDITIONAL .03. My gas prices to fill my modest Chevy to drive my modest 6 miles back and forth to work have not gone up by a mere .03. The cost of gas has gone up to where it is costing me an additional $10 or more to fill up my tank. And more for my wife’s van. On a teacher’s salary, taking an additional $30-$40 per month IS big deal and the .03 is just another thing added on top of it. THAT is my $.02 worth about the $.03

Last Man Standing

April 22nd, 2011
10:55 am

Capt Bush Titanic:

Bush’s first day = 5.7 trillion debt…..ZERO deficit…..great economy

Bush’s last day = 10.6 trillion debt….1.3 TRILLION deficit…..great depression

Hussein’s first day = 10.6 trillion debt

Hussein’s today = 14.3 trillion debt

Hussein’s deficit = 1.3 trillion

We’re talking less than three years for Hussein!

You decide.

Nazan Yar

April 22nd, 2011
10:58 am

GET RID OF THE GAS TAX!

we can all walk to work and the store on unpaved roads just fine!

Last Man Standing

April 22nd, 2011
11:00 am

Logical thinker:

I see that Hussein is trying to find someone to blame for the price of gas. I guess he subscribes to the thought, “I’m not saying it’s your fault. I’m saying I’m going to blame it on you!”

Steve

April 22nd, 2011
11:08 am

I love these people who complain about gas prices. WHO CARES? Deal with it. I see people are canceling trips. Really??? Say you want to drive from Atlanta to Destin with your family. A year ago, if gas was around $2.75 a gallon, based on the round trip drive of 400 or so miles that would cost about $165.00 in gas based on a 20 gallon tank and filling up three times. Now, the price is $3.75 a gallon. The cost for that would be $225.00. A difference of a whole $60. THATS IT! Relax people.

Tony

April 22nd, 2011
11:10 am

2 comments

1. Gas tax is the perfect form of a consumption tax. The use of gasoline is proportional to the use of roads and highways. This tax hike should be lauded by the Fair Tax and Tea Party crowds.

2. For those of you who eschew the idea of wealth redistribution, energy subsidies have been transferring our tax dollars to the wealthy for years. Please stop talking out of both sides of your mouths when it comes to the idea of redistributing wealth. The poor and middle class have been subsidizing the rich and their corporations for years. It has gotten worse in the last 30.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
11:14 am

“BigDrew724″ = another IDIOT…do us all a favor and move to the south pole.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
11:18 am

I guarantee you that “BigDrew724″ is a government employee…we don’t need his type teaching our children…i got an idea for you…if you want to improve education…get the parent involved with their kids at home…make your kids do homework and study…throwing money at schools won’t work…look at the Atlanta Public Schools…they get the most money for each kid in that school system and turn out a bunch of uneducated idiots because parents of those kids don’t care….you can’t fix education when parents don’t care and it does not matter how much money you throw at it….while you are at it….abolish the Federal Department of Education

Silent Jay

April 22nd, 2011
11:21 am

Republicans raising taxes. He-llllo 3rd rail.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
11:21 am

Like I said “Tony”, get some CVX and SLB…you won’t regret it….BTW, the market is closed today so get some on Monday morning.

double

April 22nd, 2011
11:22 am

LMS that is last MUSHROOM standing and we all know what a mushroom is, Mushroom kept in dark and feed horse shi* yep sounds like you and your lies. Now any of you want to know where all our down fall started with Bush senior look up- April Glaspie Transcript- msn Bing or any search.Hussein was lied to tricked.I”M talking about Saddam.Then that was not enough so we had weapons of mass destruction.For Bush Jr.These two wars are reason we are broke and the printing press running wild printing money to pay for these wars and now Obama doing same with Lybia.LMS tell it like it is stop your conservative lies.The truth is bad enough.

captguitarman

April 22nd, 2011
11:26 am

A tax increase – one that will bring in conisderable revenue – and one that the Guv, the Dems or Pubs don’t have to vote for — it’s just there, a miracle . . . . like manna falling from Heaven??? — WJD? What I am wondering is if it ever goes away when the prices fall? I don’t know the answer to that. But I know I wouldn’t bet my ranch that taxes will decrease 2.8 cents per gallon when they go back down. But that’ just me.

USC GAMEC0CK

April 22nd, 2011
11:37 am

“captguitarman” – wake up dude….overall gas prices will not be going down…only up…and I am not talking about the daily up and downs…I am talking about the overall TREND ….this is not Egypt…stop living in De-Nile.

Silent Jay

April 22nd, 2011
12:06 pm

And if you like this, you’re gonna love toll lanes.

Mighty Righty

April 22nd, 2011
12:25 pm

Democrats just never understand what factors effect the retail price of gasoline. One is the value of the dollar against foreign currency. This administration has knowingly devalued the dollar which means it takes more dollars to buy a foreign product than it did before we printed more money. Two, Actual production of oil has in fact gone down under this President and worldwide production has been stagnant while demand has gone up. Three, Unrest in the middle east has created a concern for future supplies leading to an increase in price. Four, We have a president who is a well known opponent of finding new sources of oil, hates the oil industry, and is opposed to any business in general. Four, Obama made sure he apointed a Secretary of Energy that thinks gasoline prices should be as high as the prices in Europe. So the cause is the policies of Barack Obama. Its is not George Bush, it is not speculators, it is not oil companies it is a combination of Barack Obama’s policies. You can stop it. You have the power of the ballot. If you want to blame someone else, be prepared to pay a lot more for your gasoline. Obama is happy with the high price of gasoline, He wants you to walk, ride a bicycle, power your car with batteries, windmills, solar power or ride government subsidized mass transit. All you have to do is listen to him. If you can’t understand then I am sorry for you and our country.

William

April 22nd, 2011
1:11 pm

Everyone says Hussein Obama is an Idiot is right. and He the worst president, or so called president, we have ever had !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JR

April 22nd, 2011
1:50 pm

OK, let’s clear something up. Obama is a HORRIBLE President. His Presidency has the potential to do irreparable harm to our country, if it hasn’t already. Everything he does, from the reckless, out-of-control spending, to the constant push for tax increases, to Obamacare, to the way he shows disdain for our laws and our legal system, to the way he treats our allies, is a direct assault on our country, our society, and everything for which we’ve stood for 2+ centuries. As with LBJ in ’68 and Carter in ’80, we stand on the brink of extinction in 2012. For the sake of our future, I hope we again pass the test and vote this miserable excuse for a leader out of office.

Rural Educaton

April 22nd, 2011
2:34 pm

JR, do you really beilieve this or is this what FOX tells you to believe. Your overall tax burden (Federal) has gone down under Obama not up. Please attempt to educate yourself before you just spout off unsubstantiated claims.

Kay

April 22nd, 2011
4:17 pm

Could any of the people who think this 3 cent increase is the work of greedy, corrupt Republicans trying to pull the wool over the unassuming and helpless populace to rake in more cash for themselves please tell me how YOU would fund transportation in Georgia?

It’s easy to criticize and accuse from a computer in your family room. Let’s hear your recommendations?

ranovernot

April 22nd, 2011
4:18 pm

While all of you are complaining about taxes, oil, Obama, immigration, etc…….remember, you elected these people! If you don’t like the policies our government is forcing on us, do something about it! Don’t write it on a blog, get out there and voice your opinion to anyone you can! Go protest, go to your state capital, make your voice heard! The only way we are going to see a change is for ALL of us to stand up an DEMAND it! We all need to stop letting our government run over us and stop thinking we can’t do anything about it.

Ken

April 22nd, 2011
9:26 pm

only thing need is the ball@changes! AS long as earth is under foot there will be oil !!! It is a byproduct of the planet!! Its all a big lie and has been to keep us all poor !!!!!!!!!!

John Radney

April 24th, 2011
10:51 pm

I have always for republicans. Nary a democrat in my lifetime but from now on I will only for for a president. I’ve heard other say it doesn’t matter and I argured it did. But, now I think they were right all along.
.

Ole Guy

April 25th, 2011
10:39 am

I dare say that the “struggles”, brought about by these fuel prices, are not all that different from the very same woes brought about by the “exorbitant” fuel prices of the 72′ difficulties, and, again, by those of 1979/80. The only difference: we somehow insist on convincing ourselves that we, and we alone, have it tough. Tough times are something with which no one else has ever had to contend.

Maybe if we just stoped this incessant complaining and accepted the fact that we…just as people have for umpteen years…are simply going to have to adjust expectations and adapt to reality…YA THINK!