No denying it: Budget cut by at least $10 billion

This week marks the beginning of the 2012 legislative session. Clearly the biggest undertaking will be the passage of a budget to resolve a remaining $1.5 billion shortfall. As policymakers take on this challenge, it is important to remember that public investments in health care, education, and community safety have been deeply cut since the recession began three years ago. 

In our policy brief, No denying it: At least $10 billion has been cut from the state budget, we debunk myths about state spending. The truth is, three years of budget cuts have come at an enormous expense to the health and well-being of workers and families from Aberdeen to Spokane.

That is why it is vital that new revenue be included as part of a balanced solution to our state’s economic problems. We must take a comprehensive approach. Lawmakers should raise revenue now by temporarily increasing the state sales tax and eliminating unproductive tax breaks. In the long run, a small excise tax on some capital gains would go a long way toward improving the adequacy and equity of our flawed revenue system.

To read the full brief click here.