Gas Tax and Carbon Tax FAQ

In response to a number of questions posed by reader Garth Brazelton on the issue of gas taxes and the Pigou Club, I've decided to create this list of frequently asked questions. The answers in this gas tax FAQ reflect the problem from my perspective - I suspect many readers will disagree with some (or possibly all of my answers).

If you have a question you would like raised, or you disagree with one of the answers I provide, I would love to hear from you. You can contact me by using the feedback form.

Gas Tax and Carbon Tax FAQ

List of questions:

1. How would a gas tax reduce consumption?
   
   
2. How would a gas tax reduce road congestion?
   
   
3. How would a gas tax reduce consumption by enough to make it worthwhile?
   
   
4. How can we be sure the government would use the revenue to offset other taxes?
   
   
5. How do we know that governments will not just spend the additional revenue from a gas tax?
   
   
6. How long would it take for a gas tax to be effective?
   
   
7. How is a gas tax better than just improving emissions standards?
   
   
8. Why should an economist support such a political infeasible thing as a gas tax?

Again, if you have a question you would like raised, or you disagree with one of the answers I provide, I would love to hear from you. You can contact me by using the feedback form.