Last week, the Governor proposed a substantial income tax rate increase, and so focused political attention — positive and negative — on that simple and controversial proposition. In fact, however, he placed before the legislature a broad package which raises three major questions: First, should we make a substantial increase in spending on our transportation …
Budget
budget and local aid updates, community preservation act, financial outlook, local aid policy, priorities/requests, resources, revenue, taxes
Governor’s Tax Plan
We’re just getting started in the budget process and we’ll all carefully study the options. Read the Governor’s revenue plan here. Read a summary of recent cost-control and fiscal responsibility measures here. This morning, I offered this comment to a journalist asking my views on the plan. Like most legislators and most careful observers, and …
The state’s economic outlook
We should expect a tight budget year. If and only if the federal government maintains support to the states, we may be able to keep pace with inflation.
Community Preservation Act changes incorporated in FY13 Budget
The FY13 budget includes important changes to the Community Preservation Act and, most notably, provides additional funding. The funding from the state level is substantial, but is only a contingent commitment in FY13 and not at all guaranteed in future years. The budget does give municipalities additional flexibility to apply local revenues to CPA purposes.
Budget Passed by Both Branches
The Speaker and the Senate President issued an joint press release on the budget.
FY13 Budget Conference Report
The final budget conference report is out and will be approved today. Here are some early observations.