Traffic Fines
I spent an outrageous $128 for a minor traffic infraction. My crime? “Genuflecting” at a stop sign. The bill was $124 for the infraction, plus $4 for referral to traffic school. The fine prior to July 1 was $24. That’s right, $24. The rest constitutes a largely hidden tax levied on all of us who drive by our crafty governor, Pete Wilson. Call it his user fee--with teeth!
The word for this practice is simple: extortion. It has nothing to do with traffic safety or law enforcement and everything to do with producing revenue for the state. Forewarned is forearmed; walk whenever possible!
JOHN J. KETTLER
Marina del Rey
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