Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Tax and Spend Mentality Must Go, Commonwealth Citizens Can’t Afford another Tax Increase

Republican lawmakers will be holding a media availability Thursday as they push to highlight why the tax and spend mentality on Beacon Hill must go. Governor Patrick’s recent announcement of a proposed 19 cent gas tax increase only adds fuel to the fire as Massachusetts businesses and taxpayers deal with an already enormous tax burden.

Commonwealth citizens are struggling like never before and cannot afford yet another costly and unnecessary tax increase. Republicans in both the House and Senate have proposed a number of reforms that will be outlined in tomorrow’s press conference.

“We will no longer allow Governor Patrick and the Democratic-controlled legislature to paint our state’s issues as an either/or. It is not a gas tax or a toll hike and it certainly isn’t both,” said House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. “Instead, it is our goal to inform citizens that there are options that until now have not been weighed. Tax increases are quick fixes, not long term solutions which is what our residents deserve.”

Along with Republican lawmakers, in attendance will also be representatives from the New England Service Station and Auto Repair Association, the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, the Convenience Store Association, among others. These guests will discuss how continuous increased taxes are negatively affecting their industries.

The press conference will be held tomorrow (Thursday) at 12:00 p.m. outside of the House Chamber on the third floor of the Statehouse.