Bringing the grand total of tax increases to $1.5 billion, legislative Democrats are currently pushing their latest batch of tax increase bills in through the Senate Finance Committee.
“Colorado is wrestling to get out of this recession, and now is not the time to raise taxes,” said Senate Minority Leader Josh Penry, R-Grand Junction.
Last session, Democrats raised taxes on seniors, hospitals and everyone who owns a motorized vehicle. They even raised the cost of a marriage license and divorce petition.
Democrats are now aiming to raise taxes on farmers, internet sales, candy, soda, condiments, napkins and plastic bags. Republicans are saying these tax increases will raise the price of everyday consumer goods at a time when families can least afford the extra cost.
Businesses are also mobilizing against the Democrat tax hikes, saying the tax bills will cost Coloardo jobs. Evraz Rocky Mountain Steel in Pueblo has said the Democrats’ plan to tax energy used in manufacturing would put the plant’s 1,000 workers in jeopardy. Qwest estimates it would lose $6 million annually and have to lay off 120 people if these tax increases are enacted.
“Without a doubt these new taxes will make Colorado less competitive and increase the cost of doing business,” Penry said.
The remaining tax hike bills will be heard in the Senate Finance Committee tomorrow at 1:30 p.m.