Politics isn’t really my thing. I actually wish I was more involved than I am. I wish I knew what everything meant and I wish I knew what was going on so I could make better educated decisions. I have no clue.
I do however have some thoughts on the topic.
I think it is very important that we are empowered with knowledge (that does not mean believe everything you hear on TV, do your research). I am very grateful that we as Americans have the opportunity to stand up for what we believe, and we have the right to know and believe what we want. Isn’t that refreshing? I know we usually take it for granted. I know I do.
I get an email from a local State Delegate that updates me on issues and topics that are being discussed in Annapolis. That is about as involved and informed as I get. I’m lazy.
Here is the most recent information that I received. You may find it informative…
You may recall that in 2007 when the governor passed the largest tax increase in Maryland’s history, we were assured that this would solve our structural deficit. It did not. (The structural deficit is the ongoing difference between the money the government takes in and the money they spend, i.e. – government spending is more than the taxes they get.)
If the leadership in Annapolis is not willing to address government spending, they must increase taxes. There are a number of taxes and fees under consideration.
- Increasing sales tax to 7%
- Gas tax – up 35.7% – 15 cents/gallon increase
- Flush tax – triple the annual fee for everyone – even septic users
- Increase corporate taxes
- New sales taxes on services not taxed
- Car registration – a 50% increase is proposed (this fee was doubled not too long ago)
This war against middle class family budgets and small businesses has been going on for too long. Your family budget has not grown, nor have the revenues of the businesses that employ us. Yet taxes and fees continue to increase, putting huge pressure on all of us, especially the already stressed budgets of middle class families and small business owners.
The next 90 days are going to be tough and I am committed to fighting against the proposed increases in taxes and fees. Working families simply cannot continue to absorb more taxes and fees. I’ve heard you loud and clear – no more taxes – and I will carry your message to Annapolis.
Shouldn’t we be informed and elect people who will vote against things like this? Not just on a State level, but a National level as well!
I have the amazing privilege to stay home and take care of my family. If the government keeps raising taxes, I don’t know how much longer we will be able to afford for me to not have to work. It is sad.
So, this is me on my soap box for the day. I’m going to get off and get back into my bed so I can rest. And talk and think about things I actually know about.
Thank you to Baby #2 for taking every ounce of energy I own.
And just another random political thought I have while I am on a roll… It REALLY gets on my nerves when people solely vote based on Political Party. Just because they are D or R does not mean they are the best candidate. Get informed people. Know who you are voting for. I just think that is the dumbest thing to do. I would say it is better not to vote than to vote ignorantly. Honestly.
*Delegate Kathy Szeliga: kathy.szeliga@house.state.md.us
janetsplanetblog.com 