04.18.2008
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| Traffic safety official blasts McCain’s proposal to suspend fuel taxes
Traffic safety official blasts McCain’s proposal to suspend fuel taxes 4/18/08 Quote:
FREDERICKSBURG, Va. — Senator John McCain's recent proposal for a three-month "gas tax holiday" would have a devastating effect on America's roadways, according to the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA), a national roadway safety organization.
"Almost 43,000 people die on our highways every year, and the key programs designed to reduce that number and save lives are funded by the federal user fee. Suspending that revenue source would certainly lead to the suspension of those life-saving programs," said ATSSA President Henry Ross today.
The current federal-aid highway program, that is funded by the 18.4-cents-a-gallon user fee, includes monies specifically targeted toward roadway safety. The "Highway Safety Improvement Program" provides about $1.25 billion annually to the states to make their roadways safer. Federal guidelines ensure that these funds are spent on safety improvements.
For example, many motorists have probably noticed the increased use of median cable barrier in states across the country. This life saving device prevents errant motorists from crossing a median at high speeds and killing or severely injuring themselves or other drivers. It has been determined to be 94 to 100 percent effective.
"The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials has estimated that the average motorist would save about $28 annually. ATSSA is confident that American road users would gladly pay $28 a year to ensure that their mother, father, sister, brother or child would get home safely," said Ross.
Since 1969, ATSSA has represented companies and individuals in the traffic control and roadway safety industry. Over 1,600 ATSSA members provide the majority of features, services and devices used to make our nation's roadways safer. These include pavement markings, road signs, work zone traffic control devices, guardrail, and other roadside safety features. ATSSA is headquartered in Fredericksburg, Va.
http://www.thetrucker.com/News/Stori...fueltaxes.aspx |  |
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