[The fee being considered for L.A. County in California differs from congestion charges and low emission zones in that it is not geographically limited, but would be levied on drivers in general. It is similar in that proceeds will be devoted to transit programs, and like London's fees, may be higher for more-polluting vehicles.
This is an EXCERPT - read the original article here. -Ed.]

by Patrick McGreevy

"Motorists in Los Angeles County could end up paying an extra 9 cents per gallon at the gas pump, or an additional $90 on their vehicle registration, under proposals aimed at getting them to help fight global warming.

"Voters would be able to decide whether to approve a 'climate change mitigation and adaptation fee' under legislation [AB2558] being considered by state lawmakers and endorsed by the board of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

"The money would fund improvements to mass transit and programs to relieve traffic congestion at a time when transportation dollars from Washington and Sacramento are hard to come by."

"The registration fee would be higher for cars, trucks and SUVs that produce more carbon emissions, a feature that backers said would discourage drivers from using higher-polluting vehicles."

Photo credit: ManilaRyce