In states and cities around the country, this game is becoming the norm...

Fees And Fines
Instead Of Taxes

Taxes are this season's no-no,
They've been taken off the table.
'Cause all taxes are great evils,
In the ruling far-right fable.

Governments are thus contracting,
Getting meaner and more creaky,
And to fund remaining programs.
Also getting far more sneaky.

Fines for pidd'ling misdemeanors,
Endless puffed up swollen fees,
All in lieu of larger taxes,
A sleazy game, this backhand squeeze.

Some folks, though, find it appealing,
For them it's not a trend depressive,
'Cause fees and fines instead of taxes,
Makes the system more regressive.

******