Representatives: STAND UP NOW!

Economist, Dr. Bill Styring, suggests that the case is easily made for open floor votes on property tax repeal during this session, by remembering and reminding the legislature that they will not be amending the constitution (the people will or won't do that, and only after two consecutive sessions of the GA have approved it for referendum).  Further, the "yet another" summer study commission will have all of next summer to consider repeal, before the next session. Bringing repeal to the floor for a vote this session, would do wonders for the state's economy and restore public trust in what's supposed to be a free market (vs. the current flee market).

The process for repeal, is the exact, same process, that the Governor's plan must follow. Remember that Lt. Governor Becky Skillman, said on the Abdul show (1/14), that a bill for repeal does not conflict with the Governor's plan and could follow the same timing and process. Translation: we can walk and chew gum at the same time. Those calling themselves our representatives must STAND UP NOW on behalf of the people and oppose special interests and distractions within the state house. Anything short of outspoken support for the people's interest in repeal should be seen as cowardice and ineptitude. Remember, it's the people, who ultimately, will or won't repeal property taxes by a referendum. In the legislature, we need bravery not slavery.

Currently, legislators believe that if they call it "relief," Hoosiers will thank them for tax increases (1% increase in sales tax, $350M increase in the state's budget and property tax increases which are less than originally proposed- huh?). Political statements to the contrary, ANY tax increase, generally speaking, is paid by citizens from sources of their INCOME; making any such increase, a "back door income tax." And, the 12-13%, sudden shift, red line, sales tax scenario, is a gag reflex of legislative intolerance to open process; not an actual, implemental proposal of sincere repeal proponents. Conspicuously missing, is a rough back of the envelope "proof" to reveal the specious assumptions upon which the red line scenario is based; clipping the bird's wing's so they can tell people "It can't fly."

There's a correlation, between legislators' approval ratings and their cynical perception of the public, to whom they've sworn a Constitutional oath, to SERVE. The people of Indiana deserve better than cynicism and cowardly legislators; caving to special interests and threats, to district dollars (House) or chairmanships (Senate). Hoosiers deserve leadership and open process. Those elected were chosen for their leadership and ability to represent the people. The time and test of their pledge to represent the people is now!