Insanity. For years now we have been constantly reminded how we need to become energy independent in this country. Green this and green that. The president even dumped millions into green projects. Car makers came out with hybrid and electric cars. The Chevy Volt was supposed to save GM from certain disaster. Finally, we had alternatives to save energy and reduce pollution.

Some of us went out and bought alternative fuel vehicles in an effort to do our part, and, of course, spend less on fuel. Now the governor comes up with a harebrained idea to punish all owners of alternative fuel vehicles since they don't use enough fuel and therefore don't pay enough fuel tax. This "punishment" would take the form of a $100 per year tax. So, what's next? Tax bicycle riders or FRED riders, or maybe those folks who don't drive at all?

This from a Republican governor right in the middle of outlandish rises in the price of gasoline. What is even more disturbing is that Republican leadership in the General Assembly has gone along with it. I, for one, will be looking for alternatives.

Jerry Bellotti

Fredericksburg