Coös County Democrat Committee (CCDC) Basic Positions
Taxes
Taxes have become a necessary byproduct of our modern Society. They enable government, at many different levels, to provide what its constituents say they want - good roads, water that is fresh and clear of contamination, clean air, safety and security (the military), an education, and the everyday services we need, like police and fire. After World War 2, there was a desire to take care of those who were unable to take care of themselves, realizing that it was best for the common good of the Society.
New Hampshire has a long history of having no tax on the regular income of individuals or sales taxes, unlike many other states. The CCDC endorses this, and does not believe that the needs of the government should be met by taxing the regular income or purchases of its individual citizens.
It is a fundamental requirement that government must be affordable, and must not make obligations that are beyond its means. Government may have to adjust the fees that it charges for some of its services, to make sure they are sustainable; they may need to change some of the ways they operate to be more efficient; they may need to eliminate positions that are or seem to be redundant. They may also have to find new sources of income, that do not include an income tax or sales tax, two things that New Hampshire is widely known for. And without impacting property taxes.
Examples of additional revenue sources might include an increase in trash dumping fees for trash that originates out of state; an increase in licensing fees and violation fees for non violent incidents; an increase in taxes assessed against interest and dividend income for individuals making more than $500,000 per year, and an increase in taxes that are generally thought to apply mainly to tourists. While some say that government should be run more like a business, and its basic functions should be sustainable, that view overlooks the Social implications of a modern society, namely taking care of those among us that are unable to take care of themselves, namely low income individuals and those with mental health issues.
The Federal government may be a source for some of the funding needed, but any funding should not be squandered on frivolous spending, like private schools, or other private activities.