Lobbying, conservatively

Published Dec 10 2008, 10:39 AM by Deirdre Fulton

With Governor Baldacci imposing $10s of millions in budget reductions, and the legislature scrambling to figure out what agencies and programs can stand another round of severe cuts, everyone's trying to make sure they keep their piece of the pie. Not only that, but everyone thinks they have the solution, the answers, the best way to climb out of this dreadful abyss.

Here's the recipe for rehabilitation from the conservative Alliance for Maine's Future, courtesy of an "open letter" sent to the 186 member of the 124th Maine Legislature:

"1) Taxation & Spending
The Legislature must move Maine's overall tax burden from #15 toward the national average. That means reducing the amount of money sent to Augusta, NOT simply shifting the tax burden and calling it "reform". Success requires lower and prioritized spending.

2) Health Care Costs
Move the cost of health care in Maine from the second highest in the nation to the national average. In the absence of a national health care plan, the Legislature needs to open our health care market to competition because competition has proven to reduce costs.

3) Energy Costs Maine's electrical energy costs are the third highest in the nation according to the Maine Public Spending Research Group - a situation created by the Legislature and one that needs to be resolved by the Legislature to reach the national average. States that have lower energy costs will get more of the best manufacturing and energy-dependent jobs.
4) Unreasonable Regulation
The Maine Legislature has a bad reputation for imposing costly one-of-a-kind regulations. If it persists, Maine will remain at the bottom of all national measures for economic vitality and quality of life. Again, ask employers about the impact of one-of-a-kind regulations."

What do you think needs to be done?

Filed Under: State Politics, Budget, Taxes

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