Is there a name for the phenomenon where supposedly temporary measures (like tolls) have a disturbing tendency to become permanent because they benefit those in power in some way?
Sounds like every production environment I've seen in the last 20 years. [Stuff] hits the fan -- quick, apply this hastily assembled patch so we have time to think about how to fix it properly.... except we never do go back to fix it properly.
I agree, seems like it's always like this. Shady measures are taken up or new laws approved just for a bit, for that situation, and then they stay forever
In fairness, plenty of sunsetting legislation is simply allowed to expire. Also, repassage often only occurs in exchange for important modifications.
I don't have an answer to your question, but my favorite (cynical) example of this phenomenon is the Johnstown Flood Tax on all alcohol sold in Pennsylvania (set at 18%). The tax was originally meant to help the town recover. The flood was in... 1936.
Ουδέν μονιμότερον του προσωρινού -- Nothing is more permanent than the temporary.
This is just sort of a universal thing.
My initial reaction when reading your question was to start composing a screed about the character of most lawmakers. But perhaps I'm making unfair assumptions.
I'd love to get, from a lawmaker whom I trust to be honest with me, what this looks like from the lawmakers' perspectives.