Gov Charlie's Biggest Tax Increase (so far)

Oh, it's not a straight ahead, no-nonsense tax. It's a 'green' tax that will ensure that we Floridians will pay a hell of a lot more for essential things: like electricity, vehicle gas and food.

See, Gov Charlie wants to be the Green Governor, sorta like Gov Conan of California. He definitely doesn't want to be like Gov Jeb who, frankly, is a much better role model.

So Gov Charlie insists through Executive Order that Florida "...by the year 2050, energy producers must reduce greenhouse gas emissions from their plants to a level 20 percent lower than the amount produced in 1990. It will also require energy companies to derive at least 20 percent of their energy from renewable sources, such as wind and solar power." Oh, and "There is a timetable for energy companies to reach interim targets." That'll be so helpful.

And finally, "The governor's order also will implement strict vehicle emission rules that mirror those already in place in California and require state agencies to conserve energy and use biofuels when possible."

Gov Charlie also will be changing the state's fleet of vehicles, etc as part of the 'green' campaign, among other "worthy" ideas.

Here's what will likely happen: food prices will go up; electricity will go up; gas prices will go up. And pretty damn soon, actual taxes will go up. This will be followed by a slumping economy.

And in 5 years we will have definite proof that damned little was accomplished. I wish to hell that Gov Charlie had waited until Gov Conan had failed at his little experiment before making us needless guinea pigs.

And, oh yeah, I voted for Gov Charlie. He wasn't my first choice. But he was the only Republican on the ballot in November 2006.

And who knows-maybe this will be successful. But since most 'green' initiatives are expensive failures or have nominal outcomes, I don't think so.

UPDATE:

Just read a favorite blog PEER Review FL, and Mr. C has similar thoughts, but says them better.