I think higher taxes on gas is a GREAT idea. The price at the pump is a "market" price set by supply and demand, and consumer perceptions. If we added 50 cents a gallon in taxes the oil companies would end up eating the increase to keep the pump prices within acceptable consumer limits. Initially sure prices would go up the full 50 cents, but over time consumption drops and chances are good the market price would settle very close to what it would have tax or no tax (the oil companies pay all the cost of the tax). Thats my kind of tax.