During this time of pandemic, the Island has become a new permanent home to many people seeking a safe haven for their loved ones and themselves. One issue that comes to mind as I drive around the Island is the many out of state vehicle license plates I see. With the increased use of Island roads, we will need increased maintenance and repair which, costs money. I would hope that the powers that be would look to possible revenue increase by monitoring the out of state vehicles and their owners who fall within the parameters set forth by the state of Massachusetts.

According to the Massachusetts state website for the RMV and Secretary of the Commonwealth, residency status is defined in three ways:

• Your home is in Massachusetts for the entire tax year.

• Your home is not in Massachusetts for the entire tax year but you maintain a permanent place of abode in Massachusetts, and spend a total of more than 183 days of the tax year in Massachusetts, including days spent partially in Massachusetts.

• You must register your vehicle in Massachusetts as soon as you become a Massachusetts resident. The law does not provide a grace period.

The fees and taxes collected will help offset the increased costs which the state and towns will incur. Many of our new Islanders work online for out-of-state companies, so whether or not Massachusetts will see any income tax is questionable.

Eric Poehler

Vineyard Haven