Indiana

9 DAYS AND COUNTING

By Abdul Hakim-Shabazz

With nine days left before Indiana lawmakers are required to adjourn, Statehouse Republicans are making Democrats and offer they hope they won’t refuse.

The Republican property tax reform plan calls for an average 30-percent reduction for homeowners.  In addition it phases in tax caps over the next two years, while putting them in the State Constitution.  The plan also picks up several local government levies, including the pre-1977 police and fire pensions and school operation costs.  It also provides low-income Hoosiers with an increase in the earned income tax credit as well as relief for renters.

Senate Pro Temp David Long says the Republicans made it a point to address Democrats concerns regarding schools and low-income citizens.   Republicans also said that permanent tax caps are necessary to any property tax reform and must be part of the deal.  House Speaker Pat Bauer Tuesday said he was not in favor of putting caps in the Constitution.

Matt Greller of the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns says the plan still leaves cities coming up short on how to find money for necessary services.  And he says the money from any local option income taxes as well the phase in of the tax caps, just push the cities and towns problems down the road.

Full post as published by Indiana Barrister on March 06, 2008 (boomark / email).