Rep. Lake Blasted in Ravalli County for Blocking Help for Montana
Families and Small Businesses
The GOP’s budget boss and Tax Committee Chair, Rep. Bob Lake (R-Hamilton), was
blasted today for blocking help for Montana families and small businesses in a guest editorial by Phyllis Bookbinder of Corvallis in this
week’s Bitterroot Star [6-27-07]
"If you were wondering why there wasn't permanent property tax
reduction for homeowners this session, it is because it was part and parcel of the efforts to achieve tax fairness stalled or defeated by every
Republican on the House Taxation Committee including the Chair, Bob Lake (R-Hamilton)."
Lake and other extremists were: "...unwilling to support even the most basic and fair efforts to collect from tax cheats. Experts
estimate that with the right tools, Montana could collect an additional $50 million to $60 million in the next two years. Yet Republicans in the
legislature voted to let these tax evaders off the hook—instead leaving Montanans to take care of these unpaid bills…more."
Governor’s Veto Pen Saved Taxpayers $40 Million: Another
Accomplishment to Keep Montana on the Move
With all of his vetoes having been sustained, Governor Brian Schweitzer’s
actions have saved the taxpayers of Montana almost $40 million.
“I would like to thank the legislature for their votes to sustain these
vetoes,” said Governor Schweitzer. “Montana’s on the move with the lowest unemployment in the country. We cut more taxes
for more Montanans than at any time in history. The Legislature has agreed with me that just because we have a surplus doesn’t mean we spend
it. This legislature cut taxes, invested in the future and saved for tomorrow.”
Democrats know that property tax relief is critical to strengthen
Montana’s middle class. That's why they fought for and passed legislation to give every homeowner a $400 property tax cut this year, and
why they stood up to Republicans and multi-national corporations who think Montanans will fall for a gimmicks that favor out-of-state landowners and
corporations. Our Democrats accomplished this and much more in the 2007 session.
Click here to find out more.
Save the Date:Dems to Select
Leaders
Gear Up to Keep Montana on the Move
Montana Democrats will gather in Helena on August 3 and 4 to elect state officers and build
on Montanans’ desire for progress going into the 2008 elections.
“Democrats are focused on progress, hope and opportunity,”
McDonald said. “We’re working together to help Montana become a world leader in the development of clean, renewable energy; enhancing
habitat and expanding access for Montana hunters, anglers and recreationists; and keep Montana on the move.
The convention itself begins at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 5 at the
Red Lion Colonial
Hotel in Helena. Friday’s events begin at 1:00p.m. and include a campaign update from
legislative campaign leaders and grassroots campaign trainings. Saturday features the officer elections, updates from Montana’s top
elected officials, and an evening banquet. The Montana Democratic Party has reserved a block of rooms at a discounted price. The rooms are
available on a first come, first serve basis. Call 406-443-2100 to reserve your room by asking for the Montana Democratic Party room
block.
