Wednesday,  December 11 , 2024

Linkedin Pinterest
Opinion
The following is presented as part of The Columbian’s Opinion content, which offers a point of view in order to provoke thought and debate of civic issues. Opinions represent the viewpoint of the author. Unsigned editorials represent the consensus opinion of The Columbian’s editorial board, which operates independently of the news department.
News / Opinion / Letters to the Editor

Letter: Pay or take chances?

By Rod Cusic, Vancouver
Published: January 2, 2020, 6:00am

As of Jan. 23, 2020, my car and trailer tabs are due for a total of $199.75.

Now, the state has put a hold on what 61 percent of the people in Clark County and 53 percent statewide voted into law — a $30 annual fee for our vehicle registration tabs to go into effect Dec. 5, 2019.

Our lawmakers now are saying that the initiative is most likely unconstitutional and could be challenged for as long as a year. My question is, “why was it allowed to be placed on the ballot if it was unconstitutional?”

The initiative was well publicized in the Voters’ Pamphlet long before the election, and no red flags were raised when there was plenty of time for our lawmakers to study it.

So my question is, “should I pay the full fees now and hope for a refund of $139.75, or wait and see what happens?” I’m not holding my breath to receive the refund if the initiative is put into law. I’m thinkin’ “not” and take my chances.

We encourage readers to express their views about public issues. Letters to the editor are subject to editing for brevity and clarity. Limit letters to 200 words (100 words if endorsing or opposing a political candidate or ballot measure) and allow 30 days between submissions. Send Us a Letter

Support local journalism

Your tax-deductible donation to The Columbian’s Community Funded Journalism program will contribute to better local reporting on key issues, including homelessness, housing, transportation and the environment. Reporters will focus on narrative, investigative and data-driven storytelling.

Local journalism needs your help. It’s an essential part of a healthy community and a healthy democracy.

Community Funded Journalism logo
Loading...