I've raised the issue of a temporary sunset tax with several members of the
leadership and JFAC. A .15% increase on the sales tax would raise $20,000,000
in one year and could be distributed toward priority areas including the CEC.
The response to any tax increase is no. Ruby Stone's Head Tax (check off on the
income tax) would raise an estimated $8,000,000 over two years. She has
withdrawn her proposals because the support to raise taxes in the legislature
is simply not there.
I'd recommend that we seriously consider putting in a surplus eliminator so that
if surplus tax revenues are generted and available by late June that even a
small increase for state employees can be made available. This is
contingent on an upturn in the economy. This approach would certainly send
the right signal
to state employees. I hope that we can get leaderships support in this matter.
I've communicated with state employees fully outlining the severe economic
situation the state is in and that many agencies and programs are being cut
back,
and that the cuts are being shared by many. If the economy continues downward
we may indeed have to riase taxes either in a special June sesson or next year."
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There is a bill coming over for the Senate that proposes to increase the
salaries of the Industrial, IPCU, and Tax Commission Commissioners. The
increase would be from $70,000 to $73,500 effective July 1, 1997 and another
raise to take effect in 98. Rep. Miller and I will oppose this bill. This
definitely sends the wrong signal, and sacrifices in tough economic times
should be shared by all.
The line item for k-12 public school teachers was deleted and the $9.5
million instead allocated to the school districts. School boards will make
the final reallocation of funds.
Dr. Tom Trail
International Trails
2039 Mt. View Rd.
Moscow, Id. 83843
Tel: (208) 882-6077
Fax: (208) 882-0896
e mail ttrail@moscow.com