A controversial tax summit, arranged by Representative Susan Almy and Speaker of the House Terie Norelli, went into its second session today at 9:00 AM.

Some critics of the event say that because it is closed to public comment and entertains the pro-tax positions of outside groups like Granite State Fair Tax Coalition and Institute for Taxation and Economic Policy, it is a means to create ‘sound-bytes’ for the cause of the institution of an income tax, sales tax or other new taxes.

As expected, some speakers advocated for a ‘new’ tax system that would consist of a sales or income tax and a VAT or Value Added Tax. Others admonished those who questioned the chosen participants.

Public Reactions

Most reactions we surveyed were that once a new tax is instituted it will just be an added tax and would never eradicate any existing tax.

“The problem with the Democrats’ income tax summit is they are not getting to the root of the problem, which is spending. We should be sitting at the table discussing how we can hold the line on spending, not where we can raise taxes. Raising taxes during these difficult economic times is a horrible idea and would balance a bloated budget on the backs of the taxpayers,” stated Senate Minority Leader Peter Bragdon (R-Milford)

“The long-term strategy of the Democratic leadership in New Hampshire is to change our state political culture and significantly increase the size and scope of government,” said State Rep. Jennifer Coffey, (R- Merrimack 6). “One of their main and most successful tactics so far has been to overspend us into a serious fiscal crisis.”

The House Republican Office will host a “Stop the Spending” session on Tuesday, October 27 from 9:30 to noon at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord.

Related Links:

Institute for Taxation and Economic Policy Funding List [These listings have been since altered to remove Soros and others from their list of funding sources but some are listed HERE.]
Soros Funded Group to Testify for Income Taxes Again
Big Money Backs Tax Summit Attendees [Archived Here]