Comments on: Hate Plastic Bags? Or Hate the Thought of Banning Plastic Bags? Take a Survey!

By: The Walrus

The Walrus — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 21:04:28 +0000

When they clearly state it!!! Granted, as a man with a healthy distrust of government, I am not going to say that there are not taxes in place under the guise of revenue that were intended from the start to influence behavior. However, with this case, cigarettes, soda, etc., the STATED intent of the tax is to influence behavior. Don’t think it’s appropriate.

By: KC Boyce

KC Boyce — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 19:48:41 +0000

That was briefly discussed at the last ESB meeting, but the City (rightfully so) knows that it has enough problems with PAYT bags that going to something more eco-friendly is not in the cards right now.

By: Keith F

Keith F — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 19:43:00 +0000

Of course I have. I used to date!

By: Decatur Metro

Decatur Metro — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 19:34:51 +0000

How do we establish intent?

By: The Walrus

The Walrus — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 19:26:48 +0000

Maybe I should have been more clear. Yes, an income tax for example, encourages/discourages behavior, but that is not the stated goal of the tax. If the tax is for revenue purposes and has unintended consequences that affects behavior, so be it. It is a different story though when the intended purpose of the tax is to manipulate behavior. I hope that clears it up.