Soft Drinks, Concerts, Golf & Bowling Will Not Be Taxed
Legislative leaders in Albany have gotten a very clear message from state voters and the pressure has resulted in the withdrawal of proposed new taxes on sugared soft drinks, an Internet download tax, movie theaters, concerts, live theater, skiing, bowling and golf.
Our own Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther said it best with the statement that , "these new and increased taxes were not appropriate and would have just added to the financial stress most New Yorkers are already experiencing."
The announcement that the state leaders have decided to drop this 1.3 billion in taxes and fees is that the federal stimulus cash has saved the day but others are saying that a lot of pressure was put on state legislators and the governor's approval ratings in a number of recent polls have plunged.
No one doubts the fact that these are indeed very tough economic times but a state government that originally decided to just start taxing families and adding this fee and and that fee was not looking out for the residents of the Empire state.
Difficult decisions are facing the state and all municipalities.
State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo in addressing the New York State Conservative Party annual Political Action Committee conference recently said that municipalities can save taxpayers' money by consolidating local governments.
The State of New York must think consolidation also.
Suggestions to think about would be a reduction in the members of the state senate and assembly....cut the number in half and double the amount of time they actually work and they would get just as much done as they do now.
The state should also consider the elimination or reduction of per diem travel expenses the legislators receive......we taxpayers don't get paid to drive to work.
There should be downsizing, consolidation and a complete re-vamping of the entire property tax exemption regulations.
The time for responsible government is now......but don't hold your breath on that one.
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