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The following letter to the editor was written by State Rep. Michael Molgano (R-144). TheDailyStamford.com welcomes letters from readers. Send them to reporter Anthony Buzzeo at tbuzzeo@mainstreetconnect.us.
We are at a crossroads in Connecticut. The projected $3.5 billion budget shortfall leaves leaders scraping for solutions. Gov. Dannel Malloy offered a budget proposing the largest tax increase in state history as well as roughly $1 billion more in state spending. Legislative Democrats offered a lighter version of the same plan.
I joined Republican legislators in unveiling a No Tax Increase Budget, a two-year plan to balance Connecticuts budget without increasing taxes on everyday necessities and services.
Today, the Finance Committee, of which I am a member, voted on revisions to these budget proposals. The tax package heads to the Senate floor today for debate and the House floor tomorrow. It is imperative our legislature votes in the best interest of our state.
In a letter from Commissioner Kevin Sullivan of the Department of Revenue Services, he explained how some of the new revenue projections are not necessarily going to provide any positive impact for our state economy. There is $13.5 million in question for Fiscal Year (FY) 2012 and $13.7 million in question for FY 2013. Why would we push measures like taxing remote sellers (Amazon Tax) and cosmetic surgery when we cannot guarantee that any funds will be generated?
What I dont understand is how we plan to solve our financial problems with what seems like more of the same. I hope these next two days bring some serious conversations about spending cuts in both chambers. How can the government justify raising taxes one penny when todays revenue projections show a surplus of $369 million in FY 12 and $635 million in FY 2013
We must look at this failing financial situation as an opportunity to make solid changes. By streamlining state government (complete with its 54,000 person workforce) and reworking our method of handling debt, we can maintain the social services safety net AND protect individuals from a litany of new taxes. With rising gas prices, the last thing Connecticut residents need is an increase in the gas tax. With a rising cost of living, the last thing someone on a fixed income like Social Security or unemployment needs is a higher sales tax.
We should not be saddling Connecticut taxpayers with the responsibility of filling our current budget gap.
The call for change is resonating loud and clear. I look forward to helping shape the new ways that Connecticut does business. Feel free to reach out to me and ask questions and give suggestions as to how we can work to make Connecticut a more efficient and pro-jobs state.
Michael L. Molgano State Representative, 144th District 1-800-842-1423 Michael.molgano@housegop.ct.gov
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