The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:
At Pima County Interfaith, we believe that a budget reflects an organization’s values. We also believe in honoring the will of the people and the Arizona Constitution. That is why we are appealing to Arizona citizens today.
Our governor and state legislative leaders are trying to thwart the will of Arizonans by calling a special session to repeal and replace SB 1828, the flat tax law that would require everyone to pay state income tax at a rate of 2.5%.
What is the problem with this? First of all, the state’s richest citizens would benefit greatly from the flat tax, while the less fortunate receive paltry benefits. For example, a taxpayer making $50,000/year would save about $39 annually in taxes, while a taxpayer making $5 million would save more than $46,000. Ask yourself who really benefits from this scheme?
In addition, this flat tax would eliminate $2 billion from revenues to the state. While the state is currently benefiting from federal pandemic stimulus and a strong economy, we know that the economy always slows. The federal money will end. The structural deficit created would harm all state services, including public education, public safety, housing, health care and prisons.