Senator Ross Responds to New Tax Increases

Boston – On July 31st, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts implemented new tax increases that Senator Richard J. Ross (R-Wrentham) has been fighting against since April. The $500 million in new taxes were passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives to fund the state’s transportation system. The tax on gasoline will increase by 3 cents per gallon, and subsequent increases will be tied to inflation. Additionally, the 6.25% sales tax will be imposed on computer system design services.

“As we continue to navigate through an uncertain economic climate, I recognize the need to increase revenue to fund the programs and services that Massachusetts residents rely upon,” said Senator Ross. “However, it is thoroughly unreasonable to place that burden on hardworking taxpayers and local businesses. There are savings to be found by assessing current laws and programs to determine which areas are in need of fiscal reform. It is essential that we eliminate existing problems from our budget before resorting to unnecessary tax increases.”

Senator Ross and his colleagues in the Senate Republican Caucus offered an alternative plan, which would have raised revenue for transportation and education priorities through reform and pre-existing sources, rather than through tax and fare increases. The plan directed the Department of Transportation (DOT) to concentrate on existing transportation and financial needs before introducing any growth or development projects. The Caucus also sought to achieve a projected $6 billion in savings by implementing various mandates of the 2009 Transportation Reform Act that have not yet been utilized.

“This plan identified a number of areas within DOT in need of reform and improvement, including directives ordered by the Legislature in 2009 that have yet to be implemented. The Senate Republican Caucus will continue to seek out methods of increasing savings and revenue within our government through eliminating unnecessary spending and increasing efficiency and transparency.”

Please contact the office of Senator Ross with any questions or concerns at (617) 722-1555 or Richard.Ross@masenate.gov.