Would You Support the International Monetary Fund's Suggestion of a $1.40 Per Gallon U.S. Gas Tax?

As reported on Fox Business last week, a study by the International Monetary Fund has suggested the United States has a way it can kill several birds with one stone — by charging an additional $1.40 per gallon for gas purchases, it would be able to raise money to address budget deficits currently plaguing the country.

A side benefit would be that it would keep cars off the road, which would reduce carbon emissions and thereby benefit the environment. Another benefit? Less traffic congestion and a reduction in traffic fatalities.

Officials in the U.S., however, don’t see that gas at higher than $5 a gallon would do much to help the economy.

The higher transportation costs would push up prices on everything. Middle and low-income families, already struggling, would bear the brunt of the impact. The IMF suggests gas subsidies to those in the lower income brackets could help offset that effect.

It is, however, just a suggestion and, according to Fox Business, not one that is likely to be considered by the U.S.

What do you think of the IMF's suggestion? Something the U.S. should consider because of the reported financial, environmental and traffic benefits? Or a non- starter — especially in the current economy?