Karyn Polito on Tax Reform Eleventh Worcester Republican (MA State Rep)

Don't treat taxpayers as an ATM when money gets tight

Voted NO on postponing reduction of income tax to 5%

An amendment was proposed to reduce income tax to 5%. An amendment to the amendment stating that it can't take effect until the department of revenue does a study on numerous related consequences.

The relevant part of the MassDems Platform is Part XII, clause 1: TAXES AND PUBLIC SERVICES: Massachusetts Democrats condemn the tax cuts that leave cities and towns to fend for themselves with only the regressive property tax as the primary source of revenue.

Bill H. 4440 ; vote number H238

Voted YES on capital gains tax rebates

This vote was on an amendment to an omnibus tax reform bill. The amendment would reduce revenue available for state programs by $250 million through tax rebates to people affected by the repeal of the capital gains tax break in 2002, a rebate primarily benefiting the wealthiest 1% of people in the state. Voting NO would reject the capital gains tax rebates.

The relevant part of the MassDems Platform is Part iv. ECONOMIC GROWTH, Clause 14: We oppose the Republican administration policy of giving tax breaks to the wealthiest individuals.... These policies unfairly increase the tax burden at the state and local level.

Bill H. 2606, sec. 56-57 ; vote number H075

Voted NO on municipal meals tax, in addition to state tax

Any city or town shall be authorized to impose a local excise tax upon the sale of meals, of 1% of the total price thereof. The local excise tax imposed shall be paid by the vendor in the same manner as the excise tax due the commonwealth. All sums received shall at least quarterly be distributed, credited and paid by the state treasurer to each city or town. [Provides a new revenue source for cities and towns to pay for schools and other local services].

Relevant platform section: PART II: EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND OPPORTUNITY: Full Funding: "We reject policies that direct funds away from our public schools to finance political promises of tax reductions or to other unrelated purposes. We support just and equitable funding mechanisms that provide for vibrant public schools in all communities."

Source citation: Section 100 ; vote number 122

Voted NO on raising income tax to 5.95% to offset deficit

Taxable income shall be taxed at the rate of 5.95 per cent for tax years beginning in 2003, for Part B income [restore tax rate].

Relevant platform section: PART V: FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY, TAX EQUITY, & PUBLIC STEWARDSHIP: Tax Fairness and Responsible Budgeting: "We believe that taxes should be fair and based on ability to pay, and that budgets should be fiscally responsible and balanced without gimmicks."

Source citation: Section 470 ; vote number 64