Alternative Energy Research: Schwarzenegger Says Drivers Pay

After creating an "alternative Hummer," Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has ordered Californians pay for state research into alternative energy. Sunday, Schwarzenegger agreed to increase motorists’ fees in hopes of raising millions to develop clean-fuel technology. According to the Los Angeles Times, however, consumer advocates believe Schwarzenegger should be charging oil companies, not motorists.

According to the San Francisco Chronicle, the Governor has accepted nearly two dozen campaign contributions from oil interests since 2002.

Schwarzenegger’s controversial law will increase vehicle registration fees by $3 per year, and the new vehicle smog abatement charge from $12 to $20 annually. Schwarzenegger expects the fees to: raise $210 million for alternative fuel and clean-tech development, help reach California’s 2020 CO2 cuts, and offer compensation to vehicle owners, who voluntarily retire high polluting vehicles.

In addition to accusing the governor of playing favorites with oil companies, others consider the increase inconsistent since Schwarzenegger won election on a vow to kill rising vehicle fees.

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