On July 1, 2012, a number of legislative changes entered into force in Russia, according to which utility tariffs, the cost of gasoline, the price of alcohol and cigarettes increased. Car fines and public transport fares have increased.
Perhaps the biggest hit in the pockets of Russians was the increase in utility tariffs - payments for gas, electricity, hot and cold water, sewerage and heating. Compared to 2011, housing and communal services tariffs increased by no more than 15% on average. Home maintenance and repair services have also become more expensive. The rent for residents of non-privatized apartments has increased. Further tariff increases are planned for September.
Excise taxes on fuel were increased. An excise tax is an indirect tax on consumer goods that is levied on a manufacturer. As a result, its cost is included in the price of the product and the buyer pays for it. The rate of excise taxes on gasoline of class 2 and below (8225 rubles per ton) increased by 6.5%, and for class 3 - by 6.7% (7882 rubles per ton). For the 5th grade, it decreased, and for the 4th grade, it remained unchanged.
Changes were made to the traffic rules. Now parking or stopping at a pedestrian crossing and on the sidewalk in front of it at a distance of less than 5 m, not permitted by a road sign, is punishable by a fine of 1000 rubles. In Moscow and St. Petersburg the fine will be 3000 rubles, and in cities of federal significance - 2500. Drivers will pay 3000 rubles for driving and stopping on the lane for route vehicles. in Moscow and St. Petersburg, in other cities - 1500.
The fare in public transport in many regions has increased by 20% - 40%.
Strong alcoholic drinks and tobacco products have risen in price since July 1. The excise tax on alcohol of 9% strength increased to 300 rubles. per liter of alcohol. Cognac, rum, whiskey, absinthe, tequila, gin also rose in price. A bottle of the cheapest vodka with a volume of 0.5 liters now costs 125 rubles. This is the retail price. Excise taxes on cigarettes increased slightly - from 360 to 390 rubles.
The rise in the cost of living caused discontent among a part of the population. And if the increase in the prices of alcohol and cigarettes is approved by supporters of a healthy lifestyle, the rest of the people are less optimistic. Critics say that the rise in utility tariffs outpaces inflation and is poorly motivated. In addition, usually an increase in utility bills automatically triggers a rise in prices for many goods and accelerates inflation.
