Goal
To add a small tax to products that damage public infrastructure, like sewers and water systems. This tax will be paid by the manufacturers of these products, not consumers directly, and is designed to reduce the need for higher general taxes on everyone. This way, companies that make products that harm infrastructure help cover the costs of keeping public systems in good shape.
Why This Tax is Needed
Some products—such as cooking oils, wet wipes, and certain chemicals—cause major problems in our sewers and water systems. These products can clog drains and damage pipes, leading to costly repairs. Instead of having all taxpayers cover these expenses, this policy makes manufacturers responsible for helping maintain and fix the public systems their products affect.
How the Infrastructure Protection Tax Works
- Tax on Specific Products, Paid by Manufacturers
- A small tax, like 10%, will be placed on products that often harm infrastructure (e.g., oils, wet wipes, certain chemicals).
- Manufacturers pay this tax. It is aimed at those who produce or import these products, not at individual consumers.
- Funds Dedicated to Infrastructure
- Repairs and Upgrades: The money collected will go directly to keeping up and improving public infrastructure, especially sewers, drains, and water systems.
- Regular Maintenance: Funds will also support regular cleaning and preventive measures to stop problems before they start.
- Surplus Funds Go Back to the Community
- If there’s leftover money after infrastructure needs are covered, it will be refunded to the public or used to reduce other taxes. This way, the tax only covers what’s needed.
- Encourages Safer Products
- By having manufacturers pay this tax, it encourages them to make products that are less harmful to public infrastructure. Over time, this can reduce the damage to public systems, which also helps keep costs low.
Why This Tax is Fair and Beneficial
- Manufacturers Cover the Cost: This tax is paid by the manufacturers of specific products that cause damage. Regular taxpayers don’t have to shoulder these extra costs, which keeps general taxes from rising.
- Promotes Better Products: Manufacturers have an incentive to develop safer products, which benefits everyone by protecting public systems and lowering long-term costs.
- Lowers the Tax Burden on People: By having companies that contribute to the problem help fund repairs, we reduce the need for general tax increases. Any unused funds are given back to the community.
Expected Benefits
- Consistent Funding for Public Systems: This tax creates a steady source of funds for infrastructure maintenance and improvements.
- Healthier, Longer-Lasting Systems: With dedicated funds, sewers and water systems will have fewer breakdowns and be more reliable.
- A Fair Approach to Public Costs: Those who produce harmful products cover the costs, rather than passing them on to all taxpayers.
Conclusion
The Infrastructure Protection Tax is a fair, targeted way to fund necessary infrastructure repairs without raising general taxes. By focusing on manufacturers, we create a more balanced approach that benefits the public, encourages safer products, and ensures strong, well-maintained public systems.