PHOENIX — So how much are you willing to give, voluntarily, to help the state out of its financial hole?
1. Comment by Save E. (savexit)— November 29,2009 @ 11:48PM
Ratings:-16+92
Taxpayer to State Legislators: Please balance the budget by cutting state spending. Of course it will hurt and certain consituencies will be mad at you. But that's the job you signed up for. Do not ask me for more taxes now; my own revenue has dropped substantially. Thank you.
3. Comment by Karn R. (sooner62)— November 30,2009 @ 12:24AM
Ratings:-2+90
Are these elected idiots for real? If they want to donate, I suggest the remember what I would hope their mothers taught them, Charity begins at home. So they can all donate their salaries, and benefits and perks first, and then come ask the citizens. Show them what it really should mean to be in public service, self sacrifice. The military goes without, why should the politicians get ANYTHING? If they worked for me they would have all been fired for incompetence.
4. Comment by Ron J. (RonFromTucson)— November 30,2009 @ 12:26AM
Ratings:-31+66
Bwahahaha. This state gets more and more ridiculous by the week. Arizona is REALLY itching for some money.
Raise taxes. Raise taxes. Raise taxes. This is not a popular idea, especially by the conservatives in this state who want services for free. It needs to be done, and in the end it WILL be done.
There is only so much you can cut in this state before our quality of life falls below that of Sonora.
It really is a shame that there is an obvious way for this state to fill its budget gap, but incompetent legislators refuse to even consider it.
5. Comment by Traylor R. (sandbird)— November 30,2009 @ 12:30AM
Ratings:-7+77
Now they're just mocking us.
They passed a budget that's unconstitutional (aka unbalanced. ) They refuse to act like aduts and propose a realistic budget. They keep hacking away at the schools. Fees are going up at state agencies. The state parks are endangered. The roadside rest areas are closed. There's an even bigger budget hole next year and they won't be able to close it with stimulus dollars. But instead of growing up and being realistic, they pull stunts like this. It's childish and it's the equivalent of sticking your fingers in your ears and yelling "la la la la I can't hear you!"
7. Comment by CARL O. (CDIVER)— November 30,2009 @ 1:27AM
Ratings:-27+13
Donations and new taxes must wait until waste is eliminated. Arizona can immediately save millions of dollars and lives by simply ending all public assistance (welfare) payments to cigarette smokers. Taxpayers are simultaneously subsidizing the living expenses and supporting the addiction of people who are literally burning money in the form of tobacco. Anyone who has money to spend on smoking neither needs nor deserves tax dollars for free food, subsidized housing, government daycare, and so on. An average pack a day smoker spends over $1800 a year on their cigarettes alone and an idle, unemployed nicotine addict obviously spends even more. The governor of Arizona already sent a state official to the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture and Dept. of Health and Human Services in Washington to prohibit purchase of soda, candy bars, etc. with food stamps. The logic is impeccable and compelling: food stamps are for nutrition not junk food, while cigarette smokers have money for their nicotine addiction so they don’t need food stamps, subsidized housing, government daycare, etc.
8. Comment by Steven M. (sajm)— November 30,2009 @ 1:59AM
Ratings:-5+49
Our desperate state legislators have now invented a guilt-based tax on responsible citizens who cannot afford it while their rich cronies are still laughing all the way to the bank. These ideologue tax cutters can’t even find a bathtub to complete the drowning of our state government. Grover Norquist is starting to frown. Their anxiety must be tremendous!
9. Comment by NightHawk P. (NightHawk)— November 30,2009 @ 2:39AM
Ratings:-3+39
We all ready give extra. Only it's to places we feel helps the most, and not where some political person or party thinks it should go. Not to be wasted in added on admin charges somewhere down the line.
12. Comment by Christine M. (Never2old2Learn)— November 30,2009 @ 3:40AM
Ratings:-13+43
The legislators didn't have any trouble burying our a$$es in debt, so why should we help them.
Its equal to your neighbor going out and spending all his alloted pay check and then knocking on your door asking you to help pay HIS bills.
We have enough illegals in this state already doing the same thing.
13. Comment by Bob H. (Daedalus)— November 30,2009 @ 4:51AM
Ratings:-8+41
The problem is not people donating to help the state........The real problem is a legislature that is out of control when it comes to spending. Donations to the state are like giving alcohol to an alcoholic, you are just enabling bad habits.......
14. Comment by Carlos Z. (SpeakinHere)— November 30,2009 @ 4:57AM
Ratings:-19+22
And why not have the Power to Ask at least...
Its OUR decision, no pressure, just another bidness decision - give the State more money or dont.
Some of us dont believe we are spending what we get, correctly. So WE probably wont pony up a dime; but, my friends the Democrats - well they believe in the "endless well" theory.
15. Comment by R.B. .. (chipz)— November 30,2009 @ 4:57AM
Ratings:-3+35
When the State Legislature stops acting like a bunch of bickering,partisan,self absorbed,entitled children,instead of mature lawmakers acting on behalf of their constituencies, I may consider doing more ...as soon as I find a job!
16. Comment by Howard F. (Howwie)— November 30,2009 @ 6:06AM
Ratings:-32+23
Let's hear from all the liberals that rail against the tax cuts and squeal from the public trough for tax increases to keep up their feeding frenzy. Here's your chance to put your money where your mouth is.
20. Comment by wit w. (Wit)— November 30,2009 @ 6:22AM
Ratings:-11+21
If the State had self respect I would.
If the State would preserve and protect its unique open space and wildlife habitats. If the State would support only clean, stable, sustainable businesses and industry. If the State would support and institute quality education of all levels. If the State would enforce its laws....
22. Comment by sam w. (OklaWildcat)— November 30,2009 @ 6:28AM
Ratings:-32+27
Yo fellow conservatives.....this is great. Its mockery of the liberal left & I guess OUR side doesnt get it . Let me explain:
Liberals are always telling us we should be willing to be taxed more because its for the________(fill in the blank)
The liberals only ADD spending, never reduce it. Spending oyther peoples money.
This bill mocks them. Its says...."you want more money? Dont tax us any more....give it yourself if you are so in love w/ this_________(fill in the blank) program."
I love it. Maybe Sean Penn & Barbra Streisand can start contributing more voluntarily & leave the rest of us alone.
23. Comment by Catherine C. (5158)— November 30,2009 @ 6:28AM
Ratings:-13+20
This bill is for all those folks who claim we do not pay enough taxes - you know the we have the one if the lowest property tax rates in the country type folks. This bill gives them the chance to pay more just like they have been requesting.
24. Comment by francis w. (6565)— November 30,2009 @ 6:28AM
Ratings:-10+19
The only people I know who are in a position to give more to the state are those who are on a government payroll, but I doubt if they'll be parting with any more of their money since their own livelihoods are now in jeopardy too.
26. Comment by David L. (4821)— November 30,2009 @ 6:30AM
Ratings:-7+23
The State can plant a big, wet sloppy kiss right on my ....errrr.......uhmmmmm........wallet. So tired of them taking from me in more and more creative ways, I will jump from a cliff before I voluntarily give them anything.
27. Comment by Howard F. (Howwie)— November 30,2009 @ 6:31AM
Ratings:-27+17
Number #24 is right. The way to solve this problem is to tax those that have been enriched by the state coffers. An immediate income tax surcharge of 10% to all state employees ought to do it.
29. Comment by John C. (jcaywood1954)— November 30,2009 @ 6:36AM
Ratings:-1+15
Every year, I give money to TUSD for tax credits. While it's not "giving money to the state," they have free use of my money until it's income tax refund time.
30. Comment by jon f. (jdfast)— November 30,2009 @ 6:37AM
Ratings:-3+32
Damn, just wait till next year. The hole in the budget next year is about the size of the Grand Canyon and the legislature doesn't have a clue much less want one. Just cowboy up and put on your big girl panites and do what needs to be done. Sorry about your staff help, but they got to go too. Your mileage allowance, gone, your free lunches and perks, gone too. Cut services that need to be cut and balance the budget already. Its your job so do it. By the way, all this little BS posturing and begging is not what you were elected to do. You were elected to run the state now DO IT.
31. Comment by John C. (jcaywood1954)— November 30,2009 @ 6:39AM
Ratings:-18+23
Just pass a 2-cent sales tax, with the stipulation that it will go down to 1 cent in two years, and go away completely two years later. That'll help the state through these tough times, and I can live with an increase in sales tax -- as long as I know it's going to go away.
34. Comment by Barbara T. (Barbara)— November 30,2009 @ 6:49AM
Ratings:-3+27
I would donate if I was sure it would go to public schools or the needy and that funds to those entities would not be reduced by the amount donated. I do not, however, trust the legislature to put the funds to use for those purposes. Stop giving sweetheart deals to private schools and corporations and I will consider it.
35. Comment by Robert R. (gaijin)— November 30,2009 @ 6:52AM
Ratings:-6+21
Ya know what's funny. For all the complaining on these blogs, for all the idiot moves the legislators make....most of them will be re-elected. That's a fact...watch and see,
36. Comment by Mary S. (GotnOPlan)— November 30,2009 @ 6:56AM
Ratings:-6+20
#32 Nonsense. All this proposed bill amounts to is another attempt to avoid making decisions, especially if those decisions might be unpopular with the base. Conservatives are always quick to point the finger and assign blame, not so quick to come up with actual solutions.
There's absolutely no reason why those of us who want to support a specific area (e.g. schools or Parks & Rec) can't do so without some special law. Why waste time on legislation that doesn't solve the problems?
39. Comment by Mary B. (mbouley)— November 30,2009 @ 7:03AM
Ratings:-6+23
The republicans in Phx need to do their job and change the state tax structure so that it generates revenues in a fair and sustainable way. Everyone who understands such things has known for years that our current system is a recipe for disaster.
As far as donating to the state, I can think of dozens of places that have been seriously hurt by state cuts and I wouldn't dream of having the state help me get my dollars where they can do some good.
41. Comment by Jefferson C. (commandermarcos)— November 30,2009 @ 7:11AM
Ratings:-8+9
Right - I feel a fiduciary responsibility towards the state. I appreciate the services they provide - freeway traffic cameras, and their concern for local affairs - for example their recent appropriation of part of the county budget. Sure, I want to give them more money.
42. Comment by Alan B. (AlanDB)— November 30,2009 @ 7:11AM
Ratings:-3+23
Maybe we can get the folks that had their "alternative fuel SUVs (nod, nod, wink, wink)" paid for by the taxpayers cough up some money. Never ceases to amaze me how when in power and running the government, they spend like madmen, but once out, they blame the government which they once WERE! Short attention span to be sure!
44. Comment by bill w. (vcnd)— November 30,2009 @ 7:25AM
Ratings:-21+11
This is just what the liberal democrats have been asking for and now let's give them the opportunity to step up to the plate and do the RIGHT THING!!!!!!
45. Comment by Fred B. (whuh)— November 30,2009 @ 7:28AM
Ratings:-15+10
39 Mary - "do their job and change the state tax structure so that it generates revenues in a fair and sustainable way"
Which economic activities do you think are "sustainable". The current 'recession' should be showing you that consumer spending can drop, property values can crater, employment can drop. Where would you like to look for more revenue ?
Who gets to define "fair" ? Should Mary or should Fred ? Should those paying or the ones taking...errr...receiving ?
50. Comment by Ross J. (5973)— November 30,2009 @ 7:49AM
Ratings:-0+14
Too late for 2009 tax forms, which have already been printed. The federal Form 1040 instructions for many years had a paragraph on how to donate money to reduce the national debt -- those instructions may still be there, haven't checked lately -- and they collected almost nothing from it.
51. Comment by William W. (Gunner)— November 30,2009 @ 7:49AM
Ratings:-3+16
Possibly if we were to amend the state constitution to prohibit payment of salary and perks to elected officials during any period of budget deficiencies, they would learn to balance the budget.
But seriously, big people can't really believe in Santa Claus, or do they really think us little elves are that stupid.
52. Comment by sandra f. (azrabbit)— November 30,2009 @ 8:17AM
Ratings:-10+19
I will be making a big donation the day I read in the Star that the last illegal has been removed from all institutions my taxes support: public schools, welfare, free health care, subsidized housing, etc.
53. Comment by Tom b. (Unhyphenated American)— November 30,2009 @ 8:32AM
Ratings:-5+15
A voluntary tax? How about if you send me an IOU. This way I have something to look forward to. If anyone "voluntarily" sends money to the state, they should get their head examined. The only way the state will change their spending habits is if they have no other choice.
55. Comment by Patricia R. (lucianvista)— November 30,2009 @ 8:41AM
Ratings:-8+16
I have been around the block, rich and frugal GOPs do not donate money unless they get a huge tax deduction, that is the truth of the way it works.
Fix the waste and then tax us accordingly to provide services, that is the constitutional reason for taxes. Oh, but then again all the GOP followers won't like that, until they start using Medicare and Social Security, and then they scream for the funds. I see it every day and hear it now from my wonderfully faithful parents.
57. Comment by R D. (azdirk)— November 30,2009 @ 8:55AM
Ratings:-10+12
The legislature has encouraged us to violate the social contract. The responsibilities of citizenship are required, not voluntary. Emerson once said that taxes are the price we pay for civilization. My contribution to last years general fund wasn't enough to pay for the paperwork. The issue is not one of waste or too much spending, it is that the legislature has gleefully cut our taxes for years and at the same time making it impossible to raise new revenues. The supermajority requirement to increase taxes must be repealed, and the tax credit system must be eliminated.
61. Comment by j s. (4857)— November 30,2009 @ 9:23AM
Ratings:-3+14
You don't need a special law or tax form to "donate" to the State. You can do it anytime just by sending a check to the Department of Revenue, and you can stipulate how you want it spent thereby restricting the funds for a specific purpose.
The idea they are trying to get a bill passed on this demonstrates their desperation and stupidity - or is it that they think WE are stupid?
64. Comment by Amelia M. (Amelia M)— November 30,2009 @ 9:50AM
Ratings:-1+15
Yeah--I will not be donating a darn thing to the state. I pay my taxes. That's enough of a donation for me. I can not believe they expect us to give and give and give while they roll around living the good life making hardly any sacrifices. I'm a Democrat. I'm all about helping out, paying my dues, and being a team player--but this is too much. This is insulting. I am so fed up right now I just don't know what to do! How about for once, just once, AZ's government actually do the governing and get their s**t together! I don't care what side you are on: they are hosing us all!!!
65. Comment by Trodel P. (trodelpost)— November 30,2009 @ 9:57AM
Ratings:-10+7
In every blog about education, or the environment, or saving baby seals from being clubbed to death by JB (one of my favorite lines still), there are tons of people out there talking about how taxes should be raised to the benefit of all people.
Take this one step further, eliminate all taxes and go to a voluntary system. Want services, open your wallet, or lobby your various friends with money. If taxes weren't taken by threat of force and incarceration (except for Administration Appointees) what would the budget look like? How much money would Soros and the Hollywood Millionaires be tossing in for the common good?
Great bill as it exposes the central lie of the left: People are willing to, and want to, pay more money to the government to be "neighborly".
66. Comment by Robert S. (rstar1)— November 30,2009 @ 10:02AM
Ratings:-0+15
"You may get a chance: Legislation introduced for the upcoming session seeks to create an "I Didn't Pay Enough" fund into which Arizonans, on their income-tax forms, would be able to make a donation to the state above and beyond what they owe."
Har, har, har!
Given the financial climate and the fact that every taxpayer is already complaining about the tax rates they are burdened with, is this legislator so far out of touch that she REALLY thinks people are going to volunteer to pay more? Is this charity checkbox also going to be offered to what's left of the business community tax burden?
Here's a thought on how to increase the budget, maybe the State can apply some of that tax money being lost to business contributions to parochial schools and use it to pay for State services again!
Later in the argument: "We have people out there who are losing their homes; we have people on the verge of losing their homes," she said."
How can she even equate that paying more in taxes is going to stop THAT from happening?
68. Comment by Bill A. (Bill1)— November 30,2009 @ 10:05AM
Ratings:-2+16
Let's ask the football coaches at the U of A, ASU abd Northern Az to donate part of the ridiculous salaries they are being paid ! Talk about misplaced priorities ! Do the math and figure out the revenue generated from that football game in Tempe last Saturday. Too bad the state can't tap some of that. If these salaries are being paid by certain big name boosters then let them contribute to.
71. Comment by F J. (fjj)— November 30,2009 @ 10:11AM
Ratings:-13+11
No liberal will donate to this state government.
I for one donate directly to my neighborhood school. So I do put my money and my time where my mouth is.
By the way, the "liberal democrats" idea of lowering sales tax on goods and applying sales tax to services is endorsed by the Goldwater Foundation. Why, because it makes since. Right now it is better to buy goods, like computers, cameras, books, etc., from out of state to avoid the sales tax. Which usually is more then the shipping from online vendors. By lowering sales the sales tax on goods we can keep more local businesses in business.
To compensate we need to raise taxes on services. This makes since because it is much harder to receive services from out of state. Plus, services that aren't taxed now include things like, lawyers and accontants.
The democrats plan makes since. The repubs don't have a plan at all.
72. Comment by Tom b. (Unhyphenated American)— November 30,2009 @ 10:26AM
Ratings:-9+10
The ironic thing about all this is asking someone who thinks we should raise taxes, to voluntarily pay more taxes. They usually say no because it is not fair for them to pay more while others are not. Of course they do not see the correlation between that and increase taxes on the "rich".
73. Comment by Wendy B. (5841)— November 30,2009 @ 10:28AM
Ratings:-2+16
how bout are rich politicians (with free comprehensive health insurance) donate some of their money to help the states and country that has employed them so long.
75. Comment by Howard F. (Howwie)— November 30,2009 @ 10:39AM
Ratings:-9+11
how bout union teachers (with just about the greatest pension program - and oh, by the way, get three months off a year) and SEIU government workers (who also have an incredible pension fund and great work benefits) donate some of their money to help the states and country that has employed them so long.
76. Comment by Jim J. (Jim M)— November 30,2009 @ 10:40AM
Ratings:-1+13
I've read that if you have a friend or loved one who has an alcohol or drug problem, the worst thing you can do is to keep on giving them money - to enable them to continue their destructive lifestyle.
Its time we stopped being Enablers, and force the government to stop its addiction to runaway spending.
77. Comment by Felix C. (Maz)— November 30,2009 @ 10:46AM
Ratings:-7+16
Who is this clown ... oh yes another right wing nut ...
If Ms Burges thinks that a volunteer method would work perhaps she should be the first donor .. like all of her salary ... she doesn't deserve it with this idiotic suggestion.
I agree with the numerous posters who advocate cleaning up their house first.
78. Comment by Karen B. (Cats Our Us)— November 30,2009 @ 10:59AM
Ratings:-5+10
How about a law that when anyone votes for a new law and it passes their bank account is deducted a percentage based on how many voted for it and it's 10 year cost. If you can't pay for a law you don't get a vote.
79. Comment by Frank G. (goudy1)— November 30,2009 @ 11:01AM
Ratings:-7+12
Those who really beleive and go around talking about how "we" are undertaxed should put their money where their mouth is and donate.
Very often those who talk with pious platitudes about how undertaxed we are, want to put my money where their mouth is.
Is this a political stunt or statement depending on your view.
Yes!
And I think it should be done at the national level by Obama himself. He can
go around the country and tell the legal and corporate fat cats to pony up rather than using tax dodges and shipping the bill to the rest of us.
He might go hat in hand to all the rich Hollywood types as well who think he is so wonderful.
80. Comment by Karen B. (Cats Our Us)— November 30,2009 @ 11:08AM
Ratings:-9+8
#79 make me spew coffee with
"And I think it should be done at the national level by Obama himself. He can
go around the country and tell the legal and corporate fat cats to pony up rather than using tax dodges and shipping the bill to the rest of us.
"He might go hat in hand to all the rich Hollywood types as well who think he is so wonderful."
82. Comment by Fred B. (whuh)— November 30,2009 @ 11:29AM
Ratings:-4+6
(This idea ought to go over real big...)
How 'bout the State freezes spending until they have enough money in the bank to cover what they want to spend on...with a reserve fund ?
Would help avoid the "oops revenues aren't matching spending increases" shocks.
83. Comment by Patricia R. (lucianvista)— November 30,2009 @ 11:32AM
Ratings:-2+8
Volunteerism, give me a break. I was a huge volunteer person at my church and community and only about 1% of the population even bother.
It was the same handful of people over and over that volunteered, the vast majority of people are cheap and lazy when it comes to any public service, ask teachers and community service organizations.
84. Comment by Stich J. (Stich Jones)— November 30,2009 @ 11:35AM
Ratings:-0+14
I'm not contributing anything to some slush fund that is controlled by these morons. Cut unnecessary programs first, see how much an effect they have, and as a last resort go to a sales tax that expires in one or two years. They won't have the guts to raise taxes and I am sure that some of these guys are already trying to get us to vote on it via initiative so they escape accountability.
86. Comment by M P. (Sweet Old Man)— November 30,2009 @ 12:41PM
Ratings:-1+13
Hey...I'll donate when hell freezes over.
The only thing this state needs to do is, vote very body out and start over with some new blood in office.
I'm sick and tired of these people up north in there Big fancy homes telling the rest of us that we are broke.
90. Comment by b p. (IsThisforReal)— November 30,2009 @ 1:46PM
Ratings:-0+8
I think... That... All the people in the state offices that make the big bucks, should be the beginning of the volunteers. They sit in their offices, make lots of money, while we work hard and make little or no money or pay too much in tax. Why don't they lead by starting?? Volunteer??? Yea, right!! We don't have the time. We have to work just to survive!!!
93. Comment by James S. (SVwarrant3)— November 30,2009 @ 2:02PM
Ratings:-8+1
hey, why don't we just outlaw one of the two polical parties, elect powerful governor, have him/her desolve the legislature and have ourselves a good old dictatorship - then we won't have any of these silly money issues!
95. Comment by James S. (SVwarrant3)— November 30,2009 @ 2:09PM
Ratings:-3+10
Hey Fred - But didn't the GOP control the legislature that passed the budget with all that spending? So its your conservative friends in Phoenix that has gotten us into this mess - aided by the former Governor
96. Comment by Max D. (shakeyhand)— November 30,2009 @ 2:13PM
Ratings:-0+11
sMy property tax keeps going up. My home value has gone down. Here in Pima county the home owners are being robbed by the way they do not figure the tax correctly. I have to laugh at Judy and this asking me and other tax payers to donate money to the State. Obviously Judy doesn't know there is a bad recession going on NOW. Where does she think all us poor people are going to get any money to donate. First of all this is the most ridiculous suggestion anyone has come up with. I agree with those comment that suggest the legislators give all their perks allotments etc. up. The person that suggested the increase in taxes (sales) over a four year period seems to have the right idea. If the Brewer governor and the drunk legislature would take this suggestion it would solve the States dilemma over the budget problem. Stop the useless and weird suggestion. "Don't donate a cent to the State".
101. Comment by K G. (kgroll)— November 30,2009 @ 7:08PM
Ratings:-0+6
Having spent almost 30 years as a teacher in AZ I plan to give my 2 cents to the state. Here it is: Why doesn't the legislature spend it's time trying to find a real solution to the 3 billion deficit instead of this nonsense "I didn't pay enough"
102. Comment by bill w. (vcnd)— November 30,2009 @ 7:10PM
Ratings:-3+4
I wouldn't consider voting or supporting any tax increases until the state does away with the 20, 25 year retirement plans for fire and police. They can work just like the rest of the taxpayers and citizens. Thank goodness as far as I'm aware none of the state employees get a benefit like that, I hope !!!!!!!
104. Comment by Keith S. (tidefan)— November 30,2009 @ 7:51PM
Ratings:-0+4
I am concerned that I may already be an unwilling donor...will my State Income Tax refund check bounce? Or will I even get one? They didn't seem to have a problem when I was paying in every pay period...
106. Comment by Gretchen W. (ccburro)— November 30,2009 @ 10:34PM
Ratings:-2+1
If I knew for certain that the legislature was going to use my donation to support education or provide health insurance for those cannot afford it, and if I knew it was not going to be used to give tax cuts (which we cannot presently afford), I would be more than willing to donate money to help close the gap!
107. Comment by c r. (crose81)— November 30,2009 @ 10:39PM
Ratings:-3+1
#102 - "I wouldn't consider voting or supporting any tax increases until the state does away with the 20, 25 year retirement plans for fire and police. They can work just like the rest of the taxpayers and citizens."
Well, they are also taxpayers and citizens, and doing a job many can't do. Ever thought about what 20 years of lifting patients over and over and carrying 50+ pounds of gear on your back while lugging heavy equipment does to one's body??
109. Comment by Michael K. (2665)— November 30,2009 @ 11:53PM
Ratings:-0+2
I think I would help the state more by doing 2 things...
1) Vote out all incumbants
2) Contribute to Sheriff Joe's campaign should he decide to run for governor
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Bill: Won't you donate to ailing state?
PHOENIX — So how much are you willing to give, voluntarily, to help the state out of its financial hole?Taxpayer to State Legislators: Please balance the budget by cutting state spending. Of course it will hurt and certain consituencies will be mad at you. But that's the job you signed up for. Do not ask me for more taxes now; my own revenue has dropped substantially. Thank you.
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Isn't it enough that I have given 28 years of service to the citizens of this state and I'm still making 20% below market wages?
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Are these elected idiots for real? If they want to donate, I suggest the remember what I would hope their mothers taught them, Charity begins at home. So they can all donate their salaries, and benefits and perks first, and then come ask the citizens. Show them what it really should mean to be in public service, self sacrifice. The military goes without, why should the politicians get ANYTHING? If they worked for me they would have all been fired for incompetence.
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Bwahahaha. This state gets more and more ridiculous by the week. Arizona is REALLY itching for some money.
Raise taxes. Raise taxes. Raise taxes. This is not a popular idea, especially by the conservatives in this state who want services for free. It needs to be done, and in the end it WILL be done.
There is only so much you can cut in this state before our quality of life falls below that of Sonora.
It really is a shame that there is an obvious way for this state to fill its budget gap, but incompetent legislators refuse to even consider it.
Oh well.
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Now they're just mocking us.
They passed a budget that's unconstitutional (aka unbalanced. ) They refuse to act like aduts and propose a realistic budget. They keep hacking away at the schools. Fees are going up at state agencies. The state parks are endangered. The roadside rest areas are closed. There's an even bigger budget hole next year and they won't be able to close it with stimulus dollars. But instead of growing up and being realistic, they pull stunts like this. It's childish and it's the equivalent of sticking your fingers in your ears and yelling "la la la la I can't hear you!"
Enough. Vote them out.
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This rep is from Skull Valley? Obviously it's an empty skull.
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Donations and new taxes must wait until waste is eliminated. Arizona can immediately save millions of dollars and lives by simply ending all public assistance (welfare) payments to cigarette smokers. Taxpayers are simultaneously subsidizing the living expenses and supporting the addiction of people who are literally burning money in the form of tobacco. Anyone who has money to spend on smoking neither needs nor deserves tax dollars for free food, subsidized housing, government daycare, and so on. An average pack a day smoker spends over $1800 a year on their cigarettes alone and an idle, unemployed nicotine addict obviously spends even more. The governor of Arizona already sent a state official to the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture and Dept. of Health and Human Services in Washington to prohibit purchase of soda, candy bars, etc. with food stamps. The logic is impeccable and compelling: food stamps are for nutrition not junk food, while cigarette smokers have money for their nicotine addiction so they don’t need food stamps, subsidized housing, government daycare, etc.
Our desperate state legislators have now invented a guilt-based tax on responsible citizens who cannot afford it while their rich cronies are still laughing all the way to the bank. These ideologue tax cutters can’t even find a bathtub to complete the drowning of our state government. Grover Norquist is starting to frown. Their anxiety must be tremendous!
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We all ready give extra. Only it's to places we feel helps the most, and not where some political person or party thinks it should go. Not to be wasted in added on admin charges somewhere down the line.
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I have a better idea. The rest of the United States should donate Arizona to Mexico.
As a Mexican state, AZ would be rich and an intellectual center. As it is, the embarrassment just keeps growing.
Let's give Arizona to someone who would value it. Wait - let me out first.
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Ok, I'll give another $5, right after they give up all their perks...cars, phones, office staff..etc.
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The legislators didn't have any trouble burying our a$$es in debt, so why should we help them.
Its equal to your neighbor going out and spending all his alloted pay check and then knocking on your door asking you to help pay HIS bills.
We have enough illegals in this state already doing the same thing.
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The problem is not people donating to help the state........The real problem is a legislature that is out of control when it comes to spending. Donations to the state are like giving alcohol to an alcoholic, you are just enabling bad habits.......
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And why not have the Power to Ask at least...
Its OUR decision, no pressure, just another bidness decision - give the State more money or dont.
Some of us dont believe we are spending what we get, correctly. So WE probably wont pony up a dime; but, my friends the Democrats - well they believe in the "endless well" theory.
Lets see if they get to drink from it some more.
No More, No Mas.
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When the State Legislature stops acting like a bunch of bickering,partisan,self absorbed,entitled children,instead of mature lawmakers acting on behalf of their constituencies, I may consider doing more ...as soon as I find a job!
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Let's hear from all the liberals that rail against the tax cuts and squeal from the public trough for tax increases to keep up their feeding frenzy. Here's your chance to put your money where your mouth is.
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Hahahahahaha. NO Way!
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Where's pro-tax Ted Downing (former state legislator) ??
Now's his chance to step up and put his wallet where his mouth is.
Where are all the "but education just needs more money" commenters ??
Have the courage of your convictions and break out the wallets
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I am sure all the GOPers are going to run to the call and open their wallets. Ha, ha!
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If the State had self respect I would.
If the State would preserve and protect its unique open space and wildlife habitats. If the State would support only clean, stable, sustainable businesses and industry. If the State would support and institute quality education of all levels. If the State would enforce its laws....
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19 -
The GOPers aren't the ones that tell people "Don't worry the State will take care of you"
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Yo fellow conservatives.....this is great. Its mockery of the liberal left & I guess OUR side doesnt get it . Let me explain:
Liberals are always telling us we should be willing to be taxed more because its for the________(fill in the blank)
The liberals only ADD spending, never reduce it. Spending oyther peoples money.
This bill mocks them. Its says...."you want more money? Dont tax us any more....give it yourself if you are so in love w/ this_________(fill in the blank) program."
I love it. Maybe Sean Penn & Barbra Streisand can start contributing more voluntarily & leave the rest of us alone.
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This bill is for all those folks who claim we do not pay enough taxes - you know the we have the one if the lowest property tax rates in the country type folks. This bill gives them the chance to pay more just like they have been requesting.
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The only people I know who are in a position to give more to the state are those who are on a government payroll, but I doubt if they'll be parting with any more of their money since their own livelihoods are now in jeopardy too.
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#18 Fred said......"Where are all the "but education just needs more money" commenters ??"
................................ . . . . . ........................ . . . .
Yo Fred, at least a few of us get it!
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The State can plant a big, wet sloppy kiss right on my ....errrr.......uhmmmmm........wallet. So tired of them taking from me in more and more creative ways, I will jump from a cliff before I voluntarily give them anything.
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Number #24 is right. The way to solve this problem is to tax those that have been enriched by the state coffers. An immediate income tax surcharge of 10% to all state employees ought to do it.
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25 Sam -
judging from TD's I think the T.A.B.M. (Tax Anyone But Me) crowd gets it too and doesn't like it...or 'splainin' it in #22.
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Every year, I give money to TUSD for tax credits. While it's not "giving money to the state," they have free use of my money until it's income tax refund time.
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Damn, just wait till next year. The hole in the budget next year is about the size of the Grand Canyon and the legislature doesn't have a clue much less want one. Just cowboy up and put on your big girl panites and do what needs to be done. Sorry about your staff help, but they got to go too. Your mileage allowance, gone, your free lunches and perks, gone too. Cut services that need to be cut and balance the budget already. Its your job so do it. By the way, all this little BS posturing and begging is not what you were elected to do. You were elected to run the state now DO IT.
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Just pass a 2-cent sales tax, with the stipulation that it will go down to 1 cent in two years, and go away completely two years later. That'll help the state through these tough times, and I can live with an increase in sales tax -- as long as I know it's going to go away.
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Why are the Democrats against making it easy for citizens to donate money to the State?
You Dems love higher taxes and vote for higher taxes all the time.
When someone wants to make it easy for citizens to donate to the State you Democrats get all upset but why?
Could it be because you won't be donating and don't want anyone else to because it might make you look bad for not donating?
And here I thought voluntarism was the back bone of the Democrat Party, apparently I was very wrong on that assumption.
or
Are you Democrats against it only because some Republicans thought of it first?
That is it is it not?
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how about a hard look at what is essential and reducing or eliminating services that are not essential.
Times are tight for every one and we have to reduce purchases.
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I would donate if I was sure it would go to public schools or the needy and that funds to those entities would not be reduced by the amount donated. I do not, however, trust the legislature to put the funds to use for those purposes. Stop giving sweetheart deals to private schools and corporations and I will consider it.
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Ya know what's funny. For all the complaining on these blogs, for all the idiot moves the legislators make....most of them will be re-elected. That's a fact...watch and see,
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#32 Nonsense. All this proposed bill amounts to is another attempt to avoid making decisions, especially if those decisions might be unpopular with the base. Conservatives are always quick to point the finger and assign blame, not so quick to come up with actual solutions.
There's absolutely no reason why those of us who want to support a specific area (e.g. schools or Parks & Rec) can't do so without some special law. Why waste time on legislation that doesn't solve the problems?
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I got a donation for ya. It'll be heading your way, as soon as I finish the PAPERWORK!!!!!
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You'll know it's on the way by that ever familiar flushing sound that announces that it's been sent!!!!
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The republicans in Phx need to do their job and change the state tax structure so that it generates revenues in a fair and sustainable way. Everyone who understands such things has known for years that our current system is a recipe for disaster.
As far as donating to the state, I can think of dozens of places that have been seriously hurt by state cuts and I wouldn't dream of having the state help me get my dollars where they can do some good.
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Whats the word I'm looking for....Oh yea, NO!
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Right - I feel a fiduciary responsibility towards the state. I appreciate the services they provide - freeway traffic cameras, and their concern for local affairs - for example their recent appropriation of part of the county budget. Sure, I want to give them more money.
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Maybe we can get the folks that had their "alternative fuel SUVs (nod, nod, wink, wink)" paid for by the taxpayers cough up some money. Never ceases to amaze me how when in power and running the government, they spend like madmen, but once out, they blame the government which they once WERE! Short attention span to be sure!
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hahahahahahahahahahahhaahahahaha
needed to see blind offering up useless plans
not worth the paper it is printed on
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This is just what the liberal democrats have been asking for and now let's give them the opportunity to step up to the plate and do the RIGHT THING!!!!!!
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39 Mary -
"do their job and change the state tax structure so that it generates revenues in a fair and sustainable way"
Which economic activities do you think are "sustainable". The current 'recession' should be showing you that consumer spending can drop, property values can crater, employment can drop. Where would you like to look for more revenue ?
Who gets to define "fair" ? Should Mary or should Fred ? Should those paying or the ones taking...errr...receiving ?
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The chances of the measure getting a hearing — and getting approved — are very good:
The chances of my doing so are slim.
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How many of us thought this was about asking Bill Gates to donate?
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I sure wish I could spend other peoples money.........
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I pay my income taxes. Consider that my "donation".
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Too late for 2009 tax forms, which have already been printed. The federal Form 1040 instructions for many years had a paragraph on how to donate money to reduce the national debt -- those instructions may still be there, haven't checked lately -- and they collected almost nothing from it.
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Possibly if we were to amend the state constitution to prohibit payment of salary and perks to elected officials during any period of budget deficiencies, they would learn to balance the budget.
But seriously, big people can't really believe in Santa Claus, or do they really think us little elves are that stupid.
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I will be making a big donation the day I read in the Star that the last illegal has been removed from all institutions my taxes support: public schools, welfare, free health care, subsidized housing, etc.
Yep. I should live so long.
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A voluntary tax? How about if you send me an IOU. This way I have something to look forward to. If anyone "voluntarily" sends money to the state, they should get their head examined. The only way the state will change their spending habits is if they have no other choice.
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This is for those of you who think that AZ taxes are too low.
It is a chance for you to put your money where your mouth is.
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I have been around the block, rich and frugal GOPs do not donate money unless they get a huge tax deduction, that is the truth of the way it works.
Fix the waste and then tax us accordingly to provide services, that is the constitutional reason for taxes. Oh, but then again all the GOP followers won't like that, until they start using Medicare and Social Security, and then they scream for the funds. I see it every day and hear it now from my wonderfully faithful parents.
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I must agree with #1.The state must live within its means.
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The legislature has encouraged us to violate the social contract. The responsibilities of citizenship are required, not voluntary. Emerson once said that taxes are the price we pay for civilization. My contribution to last years general fund wasn't enough to pay for the paperwork. The issue is not one of waste or too much spending, it is that the legislature has gleefully cut our taxes for years and at the same time making it impossible to raise new revenues. The supermajority requirement to increase taxes must be repealed, and the tax credit system must be eliminated.
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#32 wote: "And here I thought voluntarism was the back bone of the Democrat Party..."
Volunteering someone else's wallet is the back bone of the Democrat Party.
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Either cut spending or raise taxes. But don't continue to put on these ridiculous sideshows. Judy Burges of Skull Valley is just a numbskull.
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So, instead of making the necessary cuts to the budget, our government has become a panhandler.
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You don't need a special law or tax form to "donate" to the State. You can do it anytime just by sending a check to the Department of Revenue, and you can stipulate how you want it spent thereby restricting the funds for a specific purpose.
The idea they are trying to get a bill passed on this demonstrates their desperation and stupidity - or is it that they think WE are stupid?
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Are people surprised that our Welfare State is in debt and can't pay its bills.
That is what happens to EVERY Welfare State.
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Umm, that would be zero.
I'd suggest volunteering some time instead to a worthy cause.
(However, your government does not really fall into the category of worthy, IMO...)
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Yeah--I will not be donating a darn thing to the state. I pay my taxes. That's enough of a donation for me. I can not believe they expect us to give and give and give while they roll around living the good life making hardly any sacrifices. I'm a Democrat. I'm all about helping out, paying my dues, and being a team player--but this is too much. This is insulting. I am so fed up right now I just don't know what to do! How about for once, just once, AZ's government actually do the governing and get their s**t together! I don't care what side you are on: they are hosing us all!!!
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In every blog about education, or the environment, or saving baby seals from being clubbed to death by JB (one of my favorite lines still), there are tons of people out there talking about how taxes should be raised to the benefit of all people.
Take this one step further, eliminate all taxes and go to a voluntary system. Want services, open your wallet, or lobby your various friends with money. If taxes weren't taken by threat of force and incarceration (except for Administration Appointees) what would the budget look like? How much money would Soros and the Hollywood Millionaires be tossing in for the common good?
Great bill as it exposes the central lie of the left: People are willing to, and want to, pay more money to the government to be "neighborly".
Put up or shut up!
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"You may get a chance: Legislation introduced for the upcoming session seeks to create an "I Didn't Pay Enough" fund into which Arizonans, on their income-tax forms, would be able to make a donation to the state above and beyond what they owe."
Har, har, har!
Given the financial climate and the fact that every taxpayer is already complaining about the tax rates they are burdened with, is this legislator so far out of touch that she REALLY thinks people are going to volunteer to pay more? Is this charity checkbox also going to be offered to what's left of the business community tax burden?
Here's a thought on how to increase the budget, maybe the State can apply some of that tax money being lost to business contributions to parochial schools and use it to pay for State services again!
Later in the argument: "We have people out there who are losing their homes; we have people on the verge of losing their homes," she said."
How can she even equate that paying more in taxes is going to stop THAT from happening?
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They dug it's hole by letting developers pretty much dictate how little they paid in impact fees.
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Let's ask the football coaches at the U of A, ASU abd Northern Az to donate part of the ridiculous salaries they are being paid ! Talk about misplaced priorities ! Do the math and figure out the revenue generated from that football game in Tempe last Saturday. Too bad the state can't tap some of that. If these salaries are being paid by certain big name boosters then let them contribute to.
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That is rewarding incompitence, and No I won't be doing that.
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Has Arizona reached the bottom? Looks like they're digging!Stop it!!
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No liberal will donate to this state government.
I for one donate directly to my neighborhood school. So I do put my money and my time where my mouth is.
By the way, the "liberal democrats" idea of lowering sales tax on goods and applying sales tax to services is endorsed by the Goldwater Foundation. Why, because it makes since. Right now it is better to buy goods, like computers, cameras, books, etc., from out of state to avoid the sales tax. Which usually is more then the shipping from online vendors. By lowering sales the sales tax on goods we can keep more local businesses in business.
To compensate we need to raise taxes on services. This makes since because it is much harder to receive services from out of state. Plus, services that aren't taxed now include things like, lawyers and accontants.
The democrats plan makes since. The repubs don't have a plan at all.
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The ironic thing about all this is asking someone who thinks we should raise taxes, to voluntarily pay more taxes. They usually say no because it is not fair for them to pay more while others are not. Of course they do not see the correlation between that and increase taxes on the "rich".
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how bout are rich politicians (with free comprehensive health insurance) donate some of their money to help the states and country that has employed them so long.
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You dont need any more of our money, you need to spend the money you have more responsibly.
I have to balance my budget, the politicians have to be forced to balance the State's budget.
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how bout union teachers (with just about the greatest pension program - and oh, by the way, get three months off a year) and SEIU government workers (who also have an incredible pension fund and great work benefits) donate some of their money to help the states and country that has employed them so long.
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I've read that if you have a friend or loved one who has an alcohol or drug problem, the worst thing you can do is to keep on giving them money - to enable them to continue their destructive lifestyle.
Its time we stopped being Enablers, and force the government to stop its addiction to runaway spending.
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Who is this clown ... oh yes another right wing nut ...
If Ms Burges thinks that a volunteer method would work perhaps she should be the first donor .. like all of her salary ... she doesn't deserve it with this idiotic suggestion.
I agree with the numerous posters who advocate cleaning up their house first.
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How about a law that when anyone votes for a new law and it passes their bank account is deducted a percentage based on how many voted for it and it's 10 year cost. If you can't pay for a law you don't get a vote.
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Those who really beleive and go around talking about how "we" are undertaxed should put their money where their mouth is and donate.
Very often those who talk with pious platitudes about how undertaxed we are, want to put my money where their mouth is.
Is this a political stunt or statement depending on your view.
Yes!
And I think it should be done at the national level by Obama himself. He can
go around the country and tell the legal and corporate fat cats to pony up rather than using tax dodges and shipping the bill to the rest of us.
He might go hat in hand to all the rich Hollywood types as well who think he is so wonderful.
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#79 make me spew coffee with
"And I think it should be done at the national level by Obama himself. He can
go around the country and tell the legal and corporate fat cats to pony up rather than using tax dodges and shipping the bill to the rest of us.
"He might go hat in hand to all the rich Hollywood types as well who think he is so wonderful."
That is so FUNNY!
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The State government as a charity. HA
Sorry, I already give a large unvoluntary donation of several thousand dollars a year called taxes.
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(This idea ought to go over real big...)
How 'bout the State freezes spending until they have enough money in the bank to cover what they want to spend on...with a reserve fund ?
Would help avoid the "oops revenues aren't matching spending increases" shocks.
They could at least roll back some of the ( Overall state general fund spending has increased 8.7% from 2004 to 2009 compared to the 5.8% population/inflation increase for the same period ) 3% in annual spending increases above normal growth that occurred under Nappy before they go hat in hand.
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Volunteerism, give me a break. I was a huge volunteer person at my church and community and only about 1% of the population even bother.
It was the same handful of people over and over that volunteered, the vast majority of people are cheap and lazy when it comes to any public service, ask teachers and community service organizations.
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I'm not contributing anything to some slush fund that is controlled by these morons. Cut unnecessary programs first, see how much an effect they have, and as a last resort go to a sales tax that expires in one or two years. They won't have the guts to raise taxes and I am sure that some of these guys are already trying to get us to vote on it via initiative so they escape accountability.
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Fred B. (whuh
time to get your head on back straight. democrats did not put us in the mess. republicans did.
wake up and smell the coffee
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Hey...I'll donate when hell freezes over.
The only thing this state needs to do is, vote very body out and start over with some new blood in office.
I'm sick and tired of these people up north in there Big fancy homes telling the rest of us that we are broke.
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Another joke of an idea from the GOP in Phoenix.
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Get Don Diamond to bail it out, after all he made billions off of over priced homes, which put us in to this housing down turn.
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Hasn't the legislature mismanaged enough of my money?
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I think... That... All the people in the state offices that make the big bucks, should be the beginning of the volunteers. They sit in their offices, make lots of money, while we work hard and make little or no money or pay too much in tax. Why don't they lead by starting?? Volunteer??? Yea, right!! We don't have the time. We have to work just to survive!!!
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Over half of the state budget is for education and social services. Cut those and balance the budget before there is any talk of raising taxes.
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#91 - and build more prisons and poor houses
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hey, why don't we just outlaw one of the two polical parties, elect powerful governor, have him/her desolve the legislature and have ourselves a good old dictatorship - then we won't have any of these silly money issues!
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85 don -
"democrats did not put us in the mess"
And you have better information to refute the statistics in 82 ?
You know of someone else that was Governor of the State between '03 and '09 when State spending grew (by year):
'04 8%
'05 15.4 '06 16.3
'07 15.8 %
Is there any sustainable model on which those increases can be justified ?
Are you refuting that the Arizona budget is already spoken for:
58% K-12+Univ funding
13% AHCCCS
8% DES
That's 80% of the budget. And aren't those the libs favorite pet projects ?
p.s. - have you cut your donation check yet ?
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Hey Fred - But didn't the GOP control the legislature that passed the budget with all that spending? So its your conservative friends in Phoenix that has gotten us into this mess - aided by the former Governor
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sMy property tax keeps going up. My home value has gone down. Here in Pima county the home owners are being robbed by the way they do not figure the tax correctly. I have to laugh at Judy and this asking me and other tax payers to donate money to the State. Obviously Judy doesn't know there is a bad recession going on NOW. Where does she think all us poor people are going to get any money to donate. First of all this is the most ridiculous suggestion anyone has come up with. I agree with those comment that suggest the legislators give all their perks allotments etc. up. The person that suggested the increase in taxes (sales) over a four year period seems to have the right idea. If the Brewer governor and the drunk legislature would take this suggestion it would solve the States dilemma over the budget problem. Stop the useless and weird suggestion. "Don't donate a cent to the State".
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95 James -
Only "aided by the former Governor" ??
Doesn't the governor of AZ have a line item veto for the budget ?
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93 that's basically what your party did last November.
Pelosi and Reid ensure that Obaby gets whatever he wants by buying off legislators with Billion-Dollar Pork-Barrel Projects-to-Nowhere.
Gotta love that transparency...now that we can all see right through it!
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A great man once said...
"Republicans believe every day is the Fourth of July, but the democrats believe every day is April 15."
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Both of the yahoos quoted in the story are out of their mind. They can't handle what they get now.
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Having spent almost 30 years as a teacher in AZ I plan to give my 2 cents to the state. Here it is: Why doesn't the legislature spend it's time trying to find a real solution to the 3 billion deficit instead of this nonsense "I didn't pay enough"
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I wouldn't consider voting or supporting any tax increases until the state does away with the 20, 25 year retirement plans for fire and police. They can work just like the rest of the taxpayers and citizens. Thank goodness as far as I'm aware none of the state employees get a benefit like that, I hope !!!!!!!
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#68
University of AZ Athletics is a self funded organization that doesn't receive tax dollars!
Our state should take a lesson from our athletic department and run itself like a business.
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I am concerned that I may already be an unwilling donor...will my State Income Tax refund check bounce? Or will I even get one? They didn't seem to have a problem when I was paying in every pay period...
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BS!
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If I knew for certain that the legislature was going to use my donation to support education or provide health insurance for those cannot afford it, and if I knew it was not going to be used to give tax cuts (which we cannot presently afford), I would be more than willing to donate money to help close the gap!
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#102 - "I wouldn't consider voting or supporting any tax increases until the state does away with the 20, 25 year retirement plans for fire and police. They can work just like the rest of the taxpayers and citizens."
Well, they are also taxpayers and citizens, and doing a job many can't do. Ever thought about what 20 years of lifting patients over and over and carrying 50+ pounds of gear on your back while lugging heavy equipment does to one's body??
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Then get another job !!!!!!
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I think I would help the state more by doing 2 things...
1) Vote out all incumbants
2) Contribute to Sheriff Joe's campaign should he decide to run for governor
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