The Legislature deserves criticism for adjourning without a reasonable tax reform plan. But when I say “Legislature,” I really mean the majority Democratic party, which had the votes to enact anything they wanted. They ignored the Republicans, who have a reasonable plan to bring this state back to sanity.

The Republican plan included a constitutional limit on spending; a two-thirds vote required for any increase in taxes or fees; and a fixed assessment of homestead property until it is sold, which will not solve the problem overnight, but after nearly 30 years of Democratic dominance, which has created our current problems, it will take a little time to undo.

The revenues will soon catch up with the expenses and lowered taxes will result.

What people don’t realize is that the state revenues that currently exist are increasing greatly every year. It is the spending that is out of control.

It seems that the only way the Democrats know to fix a deficit problem is to add more taxes. The Democrats in the Senate and House disagree on what to tax, and both disagree with the Democratic governor. This is nonsense for the highest taxed state in the U.S.

The Senate Democrats have tried to block a new agency, OPEGA, which will evaluate programs, look at accountability and save money by eliminating waste.

I fail to understand why hardworking Maine people continue to elect these individuals who promote wasteful government and apparently care less about Maine taxpayers.

Rep. Thomas F. Shields, M.D., Auburn

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