Contributed by: jmccormally, IDP website

Republicans in the Iowa Legislature are trying to force an amendment to the Iowa Constitution.  Under the amendment, all tax changes would have to be approved by a public referendum!  This short-sighted, politically-motivated policy would end up costing Iowans thousands of dollars every year.

There is still time to stop it!  Before the House resumes debate Monday, call or email the Republicans and tell them how bad you think this bill is.  You can find the name, phone number, and email address of your Republican legislators here.

This amendment, SJR 2010, will shift the cost of state government from progressive taxes to increased fees.  Government will literally nickel and dime Iowans to death to raise the necessary resources.

As long as the cost of any fee increases do not exceed 1% of the state budget – $44 million today –the legislature can raise any or all fees each year to pay for the increased costs of providing services.

Every Iowan will be hit with some kind of fee increase.  Gun owners, when they purchase a license, will see a fee increase.  Corporations that file annual reports with the state will see the filing fees go up.  Vehicle owners will see their title surcharge go up.  Hunters and fishermen will pay more for licenses.

There are hundreds of fees already in place in Iowa.  Here are just some of the Iowans who will be hit. 

a.  Banks and credit unions
b.  Insurance companies and insurance professionals
c.  Utility companies
d.  Accountants, architects, engineers, employment agencies
e.  Veterinarians, grain dealers, processors of dairy products
f.  Construction contractors, elevator owners, boiler owners
g.  Doctors, lawyers, nurses, teachers, realtors, massage therapist, dentists, chiropractors, and every other occupation that is licensed in Iowa
h.  ATV, snowmobile and boat owners
i.  Students whose tuitions and fees will go up