Kansas Legislators are preparing to return to work tomorrow in an overtime session of a state body originally scheduled to adjourn more than a week ago. What holds them in Topeka rather than back at their regular jobs? The Kansas economic shortfall which has forced legislators to find around $400M in savings or tax increases before they can submit a balanced budget. With the end of the month coming and new tax projections around the corner, that number may fall below what the state actually needs.
In light of the pressure, ALEC has decided to send all Republican Legislators a message.. and here it is, in full.
Larger images available, click above.
In their letter to legislators they refer to the 2012 tax cuts as "bold" and powerful, while noting the drop within unemployment. They of course fail to mention those who have dropped off unemployment eligibility, or tie in any national trends.
Within the text of their letter, ALEC notes:
As a state on the forefront of pro-growth tax reform, and with the rest of the nation watching, we hope Kansas will not backtrack on its momentous achievements."
This pro-growth formula has led the state to
immediate debts of over $400M and extended debts that may be $800M.
For ALEC, the conservative nation is watching, as they urge "broad consumption taxes" over "narrow sin taxes" and any taxes on capital earnings and income.
How many legislators will bite into the carrot and a stick? We'll find out as session resumes, and see how many are willing to negotiate or hold fast to the ALEC pledge.
Tue May 26, 2015 at 2:38 PM PT: Thank You to first time user in the comments who pointed out these photos were taken or arrived courtesy of House Representative Jerrod Ousley. I had received these through email and was unsure as to source. Thank you ;)