I write to urge Maine voters to join me in support of two important initiatives on the ballot this November. Question 2 reduces Maine’s auto excise tax by half, while Question 4, TABOR, places responsible limits on the growth in government spending of taxpayer dollars.

Question 2 is a fair and common-sense solution to reduce Maine’s excise tax (seventh-highest in the nation). By passing that initiative, real money comes back to Mainers’ pockets (about $800 for the average Maine family), and makes it much less costly to purchase a newer, cleaner, safer vehicle.

Question 4 would finally bring excessive government spending under control. By limiting government spending to the rate of inflation plus population growth, TABOR guarantees government won’t spend more than taxpayers’ ability, or desire, to pay. It also strengthens Mainers’ voices in the debate about taxing and spending by requiring voter approval to exceed spending limits, and requires voter approval to pass a new tax or excessive property tax increase.

According to information provided by the Maine Heritage Policy Center,Colorado passed its own version of TABOR in 1992 and has seen tremendous economic growth because of it. With TABOR, Colorado spending actually tripled, without increasing taxes, borrowing or increasing debt. In fact, nearly $7 billion in tax rebates were returned to Colorado taxpayers because of TABOR’s reasonable, effective provisions.

Questions 2 and 4 give taxpayers a chance to experience the tax and spending relief that could improve family budgets and grow the state’s economy.

Lois Snowe-Mello, Poland