Posted on May 4, 2011
Representative Dave Labriola voted against the 2-year Democrat majority party budget that raises taxes to historic levels, increases state spending and cripples Connecticut’s economic recovery. The budget also counts on $2 billion in union concessions that have yet to be achieved by the Governor.
The Democrat budget passed the House by a 83 to 67 vote.
“Several weeks ago, an alternative budget was offered as a solution to balance Connecticut’s budget, eliminate the budget deficit and fully fund municipal programs without raising taxes,” Rep. Labriola said. “Unfortunately, the majority party dismissed our proposals before pushing their plan through.”
The sales tax will be raised from 6 percent to 6.35 percent.
“Residents of our state have been pleading for relief yet their pleas fall on deaf ears,” Rep. Labriola said. “We can’t afford higher taxes but that’s exactly what this shortsighted budget does; it raises taxes across the board.”
Other additional taxes that were raised:
• Luxury taxes on goods such as jewelry, cars and boats and wedding dresses over $1,000;
• Rental car surcharges of 3 percent;
• Yoga instruction;
• Selling a house will cost more beginning July 1 with an increased conveyance tax of .25 percent;
• A person earning $50,000 will have their income taxes raised by 10 percent.
Aside from all the tax increases, numerous breaks and credits were eliminated and scores of higher motor vehicle fees will be implemented.