House Republican Press Release

May 31, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Rep. Penny Bacchiochi votes against tax plan in House of Representatives

During the legislative session on Wednesday, May 30, state Rep. Penny Bacchiochi (R-Somers) voted against the Democrats’ tax package for 2008-2009 that would have resulted in increased taxes on Connecticut consumers.

The House of Representatives passed the tax package by a vote of 90-58. Rep. Bacchiochi said while she is anxious to see the budget process start moving forward, she could not support a plan that raises taxes at a time when the state is seeing record surpluses and taxpayers are dealing with high gas and energy prices, as well as rising property tax bills.

“I just couldn’t support a plan that would cut income taxes on one hand, but raise taxes on the other,” said Rep. Bacchiochi. “It is my hope that a plan with no tax increases, but maintains all current state services will come to the floor so I can support it.”

The Democratic tax plan called for increased taxes on funeral expenses, and would institute a sales tax on Internet purchases. Income taxes on many small business owners and families, cigarette taxes, as well as estate taxes are also significantly increased under the tax proposal.