Bill Rappleye, Jon Brien and I discuss on NBC10 Wingmen:
Public sector retirees vote today at Twin River on whether to accept the terms of a settlement agreement between the state and organized labor about their pension benefits. If they accept the offer, they and the rest of Rhode Island get to put this three-year political odyssey to bed. In the meantime, Jon Brien and I found one more opportunity to rehash what has become one of the most popular debates in the Ocean State: why did we cut pensions, and was it fair or just an expedient way to save money?
]]>
One of the genius things about Gov. Gina Raimondo’s budget is that it seems to make people from all over the political spectrum equally pleased and disappointed with her proposal. Such seemed the case with both John Brien and I, who debated it on NBC10 Wingmen.
]]>
In a wide-ranging interview with NBC 10 Bill Rappleye, House Speaker Nick Mattiello said taxes were not reduced for Rhode Island’s richest residents.
“There haven’t been tax cuts for the rich,” Mattiello said. “When folks refer to that I’m not sure what they are referring to. If you can point to the tax cuts to the rich I’ll be happy to consider that.”
At 8:00 minute mark:
News, Weather and Classifieds for Southern New England
In a follow-up interview with me, I guess that maybe Mattiello thinks the income tax rate cut to Rhode Island’s highest earners has been offset by the fewer exemptions they can claim. These were changed when the rate was lowered. I also point out that raising the estate tax exemption is a tax cut for the rich.News, Weather and Classifieds for Southern New England
I also point out that there are better ways to have a positive impact on jobs and economy than slashing taxes on retirement income – such as legalizing marijuana and increasing the earned income tax credit.
]]>News, Weather and Classifieds for Southern New England
You can also watch the lt. governor’s debate here:
News, Weather and Classifieds for Southern New England
