OPINION: Delegate Boteler Opposes Tax and Fee Increases

Editor's Note: Republican Delegate Joe Boteler III of Legislative District 8, which includes parts of Perry Hall and Parkville, submitted the following opinion editorial as a letter to the editor.

Want to make legislators in Annapolis cringe? Just say the word budget and enjoy the reaction. This week was interesting to witness the debates on the governor’s current budget proposal, which to me seems to offer more of the same philosophy of robbing Peter to pay Paul.

For decades now, funds like the transportation fund (TTF) have been raided and never replenished to its original amount. Then to make up the difference, government offers solutions such as alcohol, cigarette, and gas tax increases hoping to accrue the necessary amounts to keep our bridges and roads intact. In most cases, the funds are never retrieved due to residents traveling elsewhere for their goods and services and/or cutting down on the usage of that product.

The question I ask is: What ever happened to common sense? When times are tough like they are right now, we should be tightening our belts, not continuing to pander to special interests. Lawmakers have the perfect opportunity to cutback and reduce the unsustainable spending levels we have seen over the years.

The current proposed budget includes numerous fees, taxes, and assessments. Here are some of the proposed increases passed by the House leadership in Annapolis:

• Car titling fees increased from $50-$100
• Land recording fees increased from $20-$40
• Birth certificate fees increased from $20-$40
• Hospital assessments increased 2.5 percent
• Nursing home assessments rose to 5.5 percent from 2 percent (2 years ago)
• Parole supervision fees increased $25-$50 per month

By reducing the general fund by 3.5 percent, which in reality is the government’s way to increase government, we could cease raids on the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund, Project Open Space, and education. One slogan I heard this session was “10 cents on alcohol makes sense.” I immediately thought funding and maintaining the rainy day fund and general fund balances is what really makes sense! Not imposing a sin tax that historically never improves the current fiscal nonsense that was created by bureaucrats.

If all of our elected officials would simply face reality, we could actually see a more business friendly environment in Maryland. The tax burden on the middle class could be reduced, and you; the frustrated citizen could have more of the money that you worked hard for in your wallet. 

In closing, a less intrusive government could help prevent a double dip recession. Tax and fee increases will only deepen the frustration citizens have with their legislators.

For more information on the status of Maryland’s budget and all other legislation, please visit: http://mlis.state.md.us/2011rs/Wrap_up/current_issue.pdf and as always I am here if you should have any questions or comments.

Delegate Joe Boteler III