Subscribe to Publications: Taxes

The Sales Tax Debate - Update

abagley — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 15:36:30 -0500

The Foundation addresses several questions about an increase in the state's sales tax including how much would be raised, what it will cost the average taxpayer and how Massachusetts compares with other states.

COMPREHENSIVE TRANSPORTATION REFORM AND FINANCE PLAN

abagley — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 16:37:21 -0600

In collaboration with four other groups, the Foundation has put forward a comprehensive transportation reform and finance plan to address the long backlog of transportation investments critical to the Massachusetts economy. The plan encompasses the recommendations of the Transportation Finance Commission, on which the Foundation served, including changes to the MBTA's benefit structure that could save between $1 and $2 billion over the next 20 years. The proposed 25 cent increase in the gas tax would enable the Commonwealth to address the rapidly deteriorating roads and bridges in each section of the state, putting the regional transit authorities and the Western Turnpike, as well as the MBTA, on stronger financial footing, and provide some toll relief to those using the Metro Highway System.

Economic Impacts of Eliminating the Massachusetts State Income Tax

abagley — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 15:09:48 -0500

This report was prepared by: Global Insight, Inc.

Question 1 Proponents Inflate State Spending

abagley — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 10:48:06 -0500

In order to try to minimize the enormous consequences of Question 1, the proponents argue incorrectly that total state spending is $47 billion when, as the Foundation has shown, the correct number is approximately $31.8 billion.

Foundation Releases Major Report on Wide-Ranging Consequences of Question 1 to Repeal the Income Tax

abagley — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 11:27:15 -0500

Find Another Way to Send a Message

abagley — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 11:30:08 -0500

An upcoming analysis by the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation shows that if one were to preserve the 2008 level of spending for Medicaid, health reform, state aid to municipalities, and debt service, then one would have to eliminate every other program of state government - from prisons, courts, and State Police to funding for higher education and the elaborate network of services for the elderly

An Analysis of Property Tax Credits and Transportation Funding Under the Governor's Casino Proposal

dlind — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 11:42:24 -0500

On October 25 the Foundation released a report analyzing the revenue projections included in the administration's plan to license three casinos in Massachusetts. The detailed analysis raises a variety of questions about the revenues and benefits from the three casinos, including an assessment of the impact on property taxes and transportation needs.

MTF Joins Business Groups in Opposition to Question 1

dlind — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 09:57:26 -0500

MTF and three other business organizations have joined together to defeat Question 1, the Libertarian Party's reckless proposal to abolish the state income tax. If adopted, this extreme measure would throw the finances of state and local governments into chaos and inevitably lead to major increases in property and sales taxes. View MTF's Case Against Question 1.

Eight Communities Reject CPA, While Five Approve Property Tax Surcharge

dlind — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 10:24:07 -0500

On November 6, voters in eight Massachusetts communities -- including Boston, Malden and Waltham -- rejected a ballot measure that would have raised property taxes by up to three percent to fund affordable housing, historic preservation and open space initiatives.

Property Tax Classification Update

dlind — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 10:35:09 -0500

Presentation to seminar sponsored by the West Springfield Chamber of Commerce. Provides an overview of the disproportionate impact of property tax classification on the tax burden of Massachusetts businesses, with updated numbers for fiscal 2000.