Kansas Democrats, and some Republicans, are already thinking about which tax is going to be raised. But Republican and Appropriations Chairman Kevin Yoder has a novel idea: government should have some modesty.
“Most people are tired of government not paying its bills and instead focusing on a new shiny toy — and articulating the need for revenue for that — when our budget is in the red,” said House Appropriations Committee Chairman Kevin Yoder, an Overland Park Republican.Like most families and small businesses during an economic recessions, things must be scaled back. Belts have to be tightened. Instead of forcing higher taxes down the throats of Kansans, the Legislature should look at a scaled-down version of a transportation plan. Government needs to learn modestly -- especially when the people are footing the bill. Raising taxes is in unpopular because it is destructive, especially with the economy in the state it is. Republicans need to get across that this isn't about a having a transportation plan or not having one. It's about passing a plan that is modest, yet remains focused on the most important transportation needs. Without a greater tax burden on the backs of middle class Kansans.
Unfortunately, we can be sure Democrats will fight tooth and nail for higher taxes in order to fulfill all of their transportation dreams. Modesty and the middle class be damned.
