Hummer Tax

The Governor of Massachusetts is considering the implementation of an extra tax on the registration of SUV's; this would be the first such tax in the country. The economic effects could be staggering for those who already pay at least three times more at the gas pump. But I wonder if such a tax is worth it. Would the Hummer Tax really promote "eco-friendly" driving?

In the UK, there is a tax for driving in high traffic areas called a congestion fee as well as driving 4X4's. In addition, their fuel costs make last summer's gas hike look like pocket change. With all of the UK's efforts to change driving habits via charging the heck out of people, has it really made a difference. Is their air quality really better than in the U.S.A?

I would much rather see efforts increase in advancing the technology of our automobiles than in taxes. Though I personally do not see a functional need for a Hummer in civilian society, if a person wants to buy it and live with the higher costs of filling it up at the pump, he or she should not be taxed for it. If such a tax was to pass, there would be all this wasteful administrative and enforcement cost. Why not put the government's resources to good use by increasing fuel quality, engine efficiency, and cleaner burning exhausts. Taxing people more especially in today's economic crisis won't do anything but make SUV drivers mad. It will not stop them from driving let alone help the environment.