Letter to the Editor: Submitted by Ann Fields

To the Editor:

Governor Kim Reynolds has proposed a flat tax. A flat tax isn’t fair.

You might ask, why not? Three basic reasons. First, it isn’t fair to everyday Iowans. Second, lowering the tax rate means less money for government services. Third, Iowa will suffer in the long run, just like Kansas did.

According to the new flat tax plan, all taxpayers will pay 3.8%. This isn’t fair to everyday Iowans who need every dollar they make just to get by. The ultra wealthy and corporations can afford to pay more and will reap the benefits of a flat tax.  The rich will get richer and everyday Iowans will suffer.

Second, over the next two years, Iowa tax revenues will be $1 billion less than this year. Coupled with the educational savings plan, another $750 million over the next two years will be spent on private school vouchers totaling $1.75 billion less for government services: education, police, roads, county hospitals and libraries. This isn’t fair.

Iowa’s educational system will suffer, especially after the gutting of AEAs.  Smaller rural school districts representing lower income districts can’t afford full-time specialists for their students. This isn’t fair.

Kim Reynolds’ plan takes money from everyday Iowans, benefits the ultra-rich and corporations, provides less services, and continues Iowa’s plunge to the bottom.  This isn’t fair. Vote in candidates that will stand up to Kim Reynolds.

Ann Fields
Lansing