Today Congress passed $18 billion dollars in new taxes on oil companies. I say "screw them" but we're really all screwed. Who do you think the companies will pass the costs on to?
Instead of making new taxes for the companies, we should fine them for doing or not doing certain things. There has not been a new oil refinery built for the past 30+ years. Why? Demand has increased, and having a lack of refining capacity ensures that refined oil remains in short supply. Hence, higher prices.
So, the government should fine any oil company the exact same amount that it would cost them to build a refinery. Every year until they build it.
Ironically, higher taxes and prices will probably be the only thing that continues our country on its current course of taking the search for alternative fuel more seriously.
