Understanding Prop. 6: Gas tax for transportation projects

QIf the 12- cents-a-gallon gas tax is repealed on Tuesday, I doubt that prices will drop even six cents. Personally, I would prefer that my money went to fixing roads as opposed to lining oil companies’ and station owners’ pockets. Hope Proposition 6 is a no-go. — Steve Berliner, San Jose

AIt could be close. A no vote means the fuel tax and other higher fees remain in place, bringing in $5.4 billion a year for transportation needs. This would be a huge and bold move; the first gas tax increase in 25 years. A yes vote means no infusion of new cash statewide, lower auto fees and more potholes.

QDespite the myriad ads pushing for No on Prop . 6 and your apparent support for a no vote, people should understand that a no vote gives the government a blank check for passing future gas tax increases without voter approval and that those taxes can then be spent on anything they want. We would support the gas tax if it were not for those ca- veats. Are you fair enough to publish this viewpoint? — Clare and Marilyn Keeney, Campbell

AI sure am. The tax will be adjusted for inflation as is done in a few other states, so it could go higher over time. But the funds can only be spent on transportation stuff.

QDid you know that a no vote on Prop. 6 will allow the state legislature to continue to impose, increase or extend fuel taxes or vehicle fees through a two-thirds vote of each chamber and without voter approval. Did you miss this? Why should we trust any more of our hard- earned money to unscrupulous politicians? — Jai Srinivasan, San Jose

AAsk me the next time someone slams into a Grand Canyon-sized pothole on Interstate 680 over the Sunol Grade, on I-880 through Oakland or Highway 17 at Lexington Reservoir.

QI agree that our local roads are in need of repair and repealing the gas tax is not helpful. Having said that I find out that up to 30 percent of that tax will go to mass transit. Until then I am voting to kill the gas tax, i.e., yes on Prop. 6. — Joe Rockom, San Jose

AMass transit is a major component of our transportation system. It’s not just freeways. Think BART to San Jose, Altamont train service and bus upgrades, etc.

QWhat happened to all those gas tax dollars we were paying at the pump for decades and decades? Where did that money go? Did someone abscond with it? Pray tell. — Karen Burns, Moraga

AThe state gas tax has always gone for transportation. However, over about a 20-year period, the state was able to transfer the sales tax on gas to the general fund when the budget was a mess. But now that is earmarked for transportation.

Look for Gary Richards at Facebook.com/ mr.road show or contact him at mrroadshow@ bayareanewsgroup.com or 408-920- 5037.