The committees to watch are State Affairs and Commerce and Human Relations. This is where most of the legislation concerning state employees comes in. But this year its also important to keep a close watch on the budget process and tax legislation. A couple of our legislators are actually proposing tax cuts for corporations. At IPEA we think this is disastrous. We think those legislators proposing this are using it as a campaign tactic. Its important to know that every state elected official is up for reelection this year, so everything they do is worth a second look. Look at all of these proposals with a critical eye, because there is absolutely no evidence that cutting taxes on corporations will bring more jobs into the state, as they contend. Look at all the tax breaks and benefits we have given corporations such as Micron in the last several years. And also take a look at how many workers they have laid off as they have taken more of their work overseas. You can also take a look at the economies of neighboring states. Some of those with no income tax at all are in far worse shape than Idaho. As Dr. Phil would say, "And how's that been working for you?"
At IPEA we believe a far better option is to tighten up our tax revenues. This means looking at the exemptions we already allow and eliminating some of them. The middle income worker in Idaho (and this includes nearly all state employees) are already paying far more than their fair share in the current tax structure. Let's do what we can to make sure big business, including big agribusiness, and wealthy large landowners pay their fair share.
Its important to pay attention to what happens in your local statehouse, and we're going to do everything we can to help you stay on top of it.
