In The News

"About 49.7 percent of operational overrides passed in fiscal 2005, and 54.3 percent in fiscal 2006, according to the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation. Only 34.9 percent passed in fiscal 2007, and news reports pegged the figure in fiscal 2008 at about 40 percent."

"A number of groups and individuals have lined up against the [ballot initiative], including social services advocates, legislative leaders and the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation."

"Speaking to the North Shore Chamber of Commerce last week, Michael Widmer of the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation said the proposed tax-code changes being considered in conjunction with the Fiscal 2009 budget would constitute 'the largest tax increase on corporations in the state's history' that 'will undercut the long-term strength of our economy.'"

"Michael J. Widmer has been president of the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation since 1992. Though he supports the bill for fairness, he knows the measure would cost the state and ultimately, the taxpayers."

"On Friday, four business groups released a public letter to Senate President Therese Murray, D-Plymouth, saying mandated staffing ratios had 'no proven effect on patient care' and would raise health care costs at a time the Legislature is trying to contain them.

"The letter was signed by the leaders of Associated Industries of Massachusetts, the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, the Massachusetts Business Roundtable and the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation."

"Great point made by Michael Widmer of the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation during a speech Wednesday in Ipswich: How can legislative leaders talk about wanting to reduce health-care costs, then turn around and endorse a bill mandating minimum nurse-to-patient ratios that hospitals say will cost them millions?"

"Michael Widmer of the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation referred to the Beverly results in a rather gloomy assessment of the revenue picture delivered to the North Shore Chamber of Commerce Wednesday morning."

"Progress that Michael Widmer of the Massachusetts taxpayers foundation says is extraordinary. 'So this has been a stunning success to date. But there are major challenges ahead'" (1:28 of video)

"Michael Widmer, president of the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation, is concerned those jobs will become permanent once the bridge repairs are done.

"'I think the administration should be careful adding significantly to the payroll,' Widmer said. 'It (potentially) builds in permanent, long-term costs for a temporary bridge program.'"

"'Given the limitations of the legislation, it can't be anything dramatic,' said Michael J. Widmer, president of the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation. 'By tossing it to the local level, they've essentially passed the buck.'"