Governor Kulongoski’s package of vehicle tax increases has provoked the usual reaction. But let’s not be hasty. Paying a little more for the privilege of driving would be all right if we get something worthwhile in return.

The governor has called for a 2-cent boost in the state fuel tax of 24 cents a gallon. He also wants the legislature to jack up the annual registration fee from $27 to $81.

The registration change would hit people with $162 every other year. That is stiff, especially in households of limited incomes that have two or three old cars because of job requirements. The registration increase should be smaller. It might also be graduated based on engine size.

As for the gas tax, most people — including the many who routinely buy gas at their favorite station even if it’s a nickel less across the street or down the block — would not even notice a 2-cent difference in the tax. And if it generated enough money for cities to get a bigger share, so places like Albany could repave more of their bumpy streets sooner, most drivers probably would not mind the extra expense. (hh)