When you live in a state with one of the highest tax burdens in the US, you’re always interested when another state proposes a tax you don’t have – yet.
I was recently reading one of the columns in Kayak Angler magazine when I came across this article. Apparently there has been some discussion in Texas around introducing a registration fee on kayaks, and I assume canoes as well.
One of the proposed outcomes would be that Texas, in return for levying the new paddle craft fee, would establish low-impact fishing areas (no motor zones). This topic is viewed as controversial by some anglers, and would only increase in contentiousness when associated with a new tax.
Increased access to public waters was also offered up as a possible use for the funds, assuming that new small craft ramps would be wanted or needed.
Finally increased boater education was mentioned as a way to utilize the new funds. This isn’t a bad idea. Boater safety could always be improved. Conceivably the course curriculum would be and should be different than power craft or sailboats.
Texans, known for their dislike of taxes, will undoubtedly fight this one, so it will be interesting to see how it turns out.
What do you think?
I don’t like the no motor zones, but I suppose if they actually use the funds as described it’s not a totally bad thing. That said, boater education in concept is great, but I don’t see it. What men like to read the directions? There’s probably a better way to fund some of these programs than an additional tax.