MD. WAR ON D. C. AUTOS UP TO SENATE

Washington Times
December 27, 1922 Home Edition

Asked to Limit U. S. Road Fund in Agriculatural Appropriation Bill.

Speculation as to what action Maryland officials will take in the event the proposed amentment to the Agricultural bill, now pending, for reciprocity among all States of the Union and the District of Columbia with regard to automobile licenses, was rife here this morning. Congressman Charles F. Curry of California had intended inserting the amendment in the bill during its consideration in the House, but in the rush to finish the work before the holidays it was overlooked.

Seeks Senate Aid.

Congressman Curry said this morning that an attempt will be made to have it inserted in the Senate. He feels certain, he says, that if the bill is returned to the House with the amendment included it will pass without diffculty.

The outstanding feature of the situation is that the State of Maryland probably will derive more income from the present method of taxing auto licenses of District motorists than it would through the appropriation which Congressman Curry says will be denied it in the event reciprocity is not accepted. The Agricultural appropriation bill carries $29,000,000 for State aid road construction. The proposed amendment would deny any State the right to a part of this appropriation which did not establish automobile reciprocity between other States and the District.

Costs D. C. Dear.

According to data compiled by the American Automobile Association, the District paid to Maryland $536,774.88 during the first ten months of 1920. Maryland paid into the District for the same period less than $60,000.

The war between Maryland and the District over license taxes has waged for years. It has on several occasions been the subject of congressional inquiry.