I have read with great interest the many letters supporting the Taxpayer Bill of Rights. The claims are appealing, and as a 26-year-old with a limited income, I have considered the potential benefits of TABOR.

After looking at the facts, I have decided it is in my and Maine’s best interest to vote no. In March, the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a nonpartisan organization that works “on fiscal policy and public programs that affect low- and moderate-income families and individuals,” released a report on TABOR’s impact on Maine if it were passed. One of the many facts presented in this report focused on TABOR’s ability to meet the needs of Maine’s population.

According the U.S. Census Bureau between 2000 and 2030, Maine’s total population will increase 11 percent. The elderly population, however, will more than double. With more elderly people comes the need for higher spending in order to meet their needs, but TABOR would only use the 11 percent figure to decide state spending.

That is but one of several examples that show when something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. As a society, many depend on the government to have services available when needed, but services simply cannot work effectively if there is not enough money to support them.

I will be voting no on Question 1.

Valerie Okrent, Lewiston