The views stated here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors of this newspaper. We welcome supporting or opposing views on any published item. Received September 16, 2024.
For a long time, Connecticut residents have not considered how energy costs affect
their cost of living. However, that is changing with the surprising “Public Cost” charge in
resident electric bills. Majority politicians failed to protect residents from this additional
charge.
Connecticut was already among the highest cost electricity states in the country, so the
new Public Cost is excessive. If it was football, majority politicians would get a penalty
for “unnecessary roughness.”
Connecticut is also among the highest diesel fuel tax states. Most residents don’t drive
diesel vehicles, so this tax goes unnoticed. However, residents should understand that
much of what we buy is delivered by diesel trucks. Therefore, that diesel fuel tax is
embedded in the price of all those products we buy.
At 25 cents per gallon, Connecticut’s gasoline tax is now more moderate versus other
states. However, residents should know about the Petroleum Products Earnings Tax
(PGET). This tax of 8.1% is imposed on petroleum product distribution, including
gasoline, which is passed on to consumers. When the PGET is factored in, Connecticut
is among the highest gasoline tax states.
Energy is an economic lifeblood so taxation of it is critical. Majority politicians have
created a web of high and hidden taxes that, in the end, affect the cost of living for all.
Kathryn Russell, the candidate for the 36th House District, abhors these high taxes and
deceptive cost impositions on families. She has thirty years of experience in small
businesses and large corporations, along with an advanced business degree.
Kathryn Russell knows how to identify unnecessary costs and will drive legislation to
stop them. With Kathryn Russell, residents will understand how energy taxes will
impact their standard of living. For better, more transparent control of energy costs, vote for Kathryn Russell.
Paul Radicchi, Chester
The writer is a member of the Chester Board of Selectmen.
