Very good points
But I don’t think that the Feds can force the states to collect this tax for them.
But, as usual the Feds will compel the states to collect this tax under threat of withholding highway funds.
In this case I think the states would be better off just keeping the money for themselves.
But most state politicians would rather collect the taxes for the Feds and then get a reduced and restricted return from the Feds than take the heat themselves for the tax.
Absolutely they can ... hold my beer 'n watch this: All they have to do is the exact same thing they did when they wanted the legal drinking age across the country raised to 21: withhold federal highway funds until states agree to collect the tax and pass it through to the Feds.
See how easy that was?
All you have to do is be as old as I am with a memory as long as mine to know exactly what these bastards are going to do.
I should’ve read past your first sentence before replying, ha! You nailed it. :-)