New momentum for new revenues

The state legislature’s recent Special Session was punctuated by talk about how to grow our economy, help create jobs, and meet the needs of Marylanders. This is not an easy task, but it is possible if we take  a balanced approach that includes revenues instead of a cuts-only approach that puts our economy in jeopardy.  If we want to attract and create new jobs, we need to invest in our schools, repair our roads and bridges, and keep our communities safe, and we can only do this with new revenue.

Recently, I’ve been encouraged by a handful of articles that show some momentum in the fight for a balanced approach that includes new revenue.   I  want to share a few with you today:

•         The MarylandReporter discusses a number of sources of revenue:

•         The Gazette forecasts an ongoing focus on revenue in the state legislature 

We have also seen lots of attention on the growing income disparity in our country.   As more people speak out on this issue, we have a unique opportunity to look at how our tax system has favored the wealthy in recent decades and how we can help protect middle- and low-income families who are struggling amid the weak economy.  A balanced approach to our country’s finances, including new revenues rather than a cuts-only strategy, is the best way to help lift our economy and improve the lives of average Americans.     

Here are a few news items that highlight these issues:

•          A piece about top earners more than doublingtheir share of American income.
•          A graphic showing income distribution over thelast thirty years.
•         An article with split opinions from millionaires about a potential surtax.