Nickel and Diming Methods to a Balannced State Budget

[Tony1941]

Effective on 1 March 2010, the RMV will be charging a $5 fee to anyone speaking to a live person. It does not guarantee service with a smile or correct information. If you have to call the RMV 10 times to settle an issue and speak to a live person, you will be charged $50.

See attached file.

In addition to the RMV fee, there is a proposal to increase the annual vehicle inspection fee from $29 to $35.
Of course, several years ago the requirement of vehicle emissions testing was eliminated. So clean air initiatives were supplanted by the need to increase profit to inspection stations and raise state share of the fee. (i.e. It only takes 5 minutes to do an inspection without emission testing vs 15 to 20 minutes with emissions testing)

[Ghostdog]

Not a problem! The few times I have tried to call the RMV I was never able to get through to a live person (even after waiting 45 minutes on one occasion).

[resident]

This is similar to on-line ticket sales with airlines vs. calling your your reservation. The last time I phoned in a reservation, it was an incredibly long wait and there was an additional service fee. So, I guess I'm not surprised by this, although it penalizes people who don't like to use computers.

[Tony1941]

Governor Patrick to the rescue. Gov. Patrick announced on 3 March 2010 that the fee is being repealed and reimbursements will be made.

NOW IF THE GOOD GOVERNOR WOULD REPEAL AND REIMBURSE ALL THE FEES THAT HAVE BEEN INCREASED SINCE HE TOOK OFFICE PLUS REPEAL THE 25% SALES TAX INCREASE, I WILL VOTE FOR MR. PATRICK.

[Ghostdog]

I'm sure we will hear him say he has "Lowered" fees when his relection comes up. He's a 1 term Gov and I'm sure his bud Obama will have a place for him in DC.