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Legislature's Task to Balance Budget

Monday, February 15 2010

The Pueblo Cheiftain
By: Senator Abel Tapia (D-Pueblo)
February 14th, 2010

The Colorado Legislature is in the midst of hearing many important bills that are important to the people of Colorado. These bills include PERA reform and medical marijuana, but none are more important than the state budget.

Since the recession began in 2008, Democrats have worked day in and day out to offer practical solutions to balance the budget. As we emerge from the worst recession since the Great Depression, state leaders must still deal with a budget shortfall of more than $1 billion. As lawmakers, it’s our job to ensure cuts to the state budget are fair and equitable. We are taking a balanced approach to balancing the state budget. Yes, the cuts we are making are painful, but the pain must be shared.    There are families all across Colorado who must choose between a visit to the doctor or putting food on the table. Business owners have had to make the tough choice between laying off workers or cutting employee benefits. These are tough times, and all Coloradans are struggling with tough choices.

Since the recession began in 2008, the state has closed a $2.2 billion shortfall. As a member of the Joint Budget Committee, I have watched as declining revenues required the governor to go back to make cut after cut to the current fiscal year budget.

For the 2010-11 fiscal year budget, Colorado legislators still need to cut $1 billion from the budget.

We have made difficult cuts that affect K-12 schools, roads, higher education, prisons and health care funding. We have examined every option, though our options are few. Faced with these choices, there is something in the budget for everyone to hate.

A few individuals from the business community have argued the state should charge tax on food rather than considering eliminating or suspending any special interest tax exemptions. I find this suggestion disturbing. A tax on essential food items would be regressive, and it would hurt Colorado families.

Instead, we have asked the businesses community to join us in the solution. Eliminating or suspending corporate tax exemptions will be painful, but Colorado businesses need to pay their fair share. Colorado families, state troopers, teachers, nurses, and many others are sharing in the pain. This is an opportunity for the business community to take part and help to balance the budget.

The bottom line is that we all must share in the burden and we all must share in the solution.  I am very proud of the people of Colorado and the strength and resilience they have presented in the face of our current troubles. As Coloradans tighten their belt, so will the state — no matter how painful it may be.

Ours is a fiscally responsible, balanced approach to managing the state’s finances in these difficult times. The Legislature will continue to confront these challenges, make the difficult decisions and do what is necessary to lead the state to recovery.