I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to send this to you yesterday but ran out of time. I want to bring to your attention a recent fee increase that directly impacts your household finances and disproportionately affects constituents in rural areas. Effective yesterday, July 1st, the vehicle registration fees in Maryland have significantly increased due to a bill unilaterally passed by the Annapolis Democrats and signed into law by Governor Wes Moore.
Details of the Increase
Here’s a breakdown of the new registration fees:
- Sedans (under 3,500 pounds):
- New Fee: $221 every two years
- Increase: 64%
- Small SUVs (between 3,500 and 3,700 pounds):
- New Fee: $241 every two years
- Increase: 79%
- Large SUVs (over 3,700 pounds):
- New Fee: $321 every two years
- Increase: 73%
- Pickup Trucks:
- New Fee Range: $267.50 to $297.50 every two years
- Increase: Up to 84%
Context and Impact
I've heard political operatives use the excuse of increasing taxes to justify increasing education funding. However, this fee was increased to backfill budget holes in the Transportation Trust Fund caused by overspending and over-subsidizing mass transit.
As shown in the MTA’s most recent report, in fiscal 2022, farebox recovery rates for MTA bus, light rail, heavy rail (subway), and commuter rail operating costs were 7%, 6%, 8%, and 8%, respectively. Thus, taxpayers pay the rest.
The details of all transportation tax and fee increases from this past legislative session are here:
The decision to raise vehicle registration by an estimated $168.9 million, combined with 300+ other fee increases (not all but pushed mainly by Democrats), has significantly impacted our household budgets, notably for those who rely on their vehicles for work or essential activities. The increases are not marginal; they are substantial enough to strain the financial resources of many families in our community.
Call to Action
The next legislative session will be here before you know it, and I am concerned that Annapolis Democrats may significantly increase taxes. I strongly encourage you to stay informed about upcoming legislative decisions and voice your concerns. From my experience, politicians are primarily focused on re-election, and their opinions can be influenced by constituents contacting them. Your involvement is crucial in the future.
Stay engaged, stay informed, and let's work together for our area's best interests.