Statement on NC Senate’s budget proposal press conference from Alexandra F. Sirota, Budget & Tax Center Director

Late tonight, we expect the full details of how Senate lawmakers pay for their tax cuts while proposing modest increases for their priorities, including raising pay for some teachers, principals and state employees. In the meantime, it remains unclear how the Senate can cut taxes to the tune of more than $800 million, set aside $300 million in savings, and increase investments as detailed in their press conference without relying on one-time money or cutting other areas of the budget.  

We know that many of the priorities identified require a greater commitment of state funds to fully realize their goals: raising the age of juvenile jurisdiction, addressing the damage of Hurricane Matthew,  and investing in small towns and rural communities.  

It is clear that the Senate can’t commit to addressing the priorities of North Carolinians while it is committed to these tax cuts for the wealthy. Priorities like ensuring that all children are safe and protected from abuse; that each child has access to a quality public education from early years through to careers. Priorities that would ensure work is rewarded with pay that allows families to make ends meet. And every community—rural and urban—is given the tools to thrive. The Senate can only achieve these goals if lawmakers stop pursuing more income tax cuts for the wealthy and focus on actually investing in our middle class and all of our communities. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT Alexandra F. Sirota, Budget & Tax Center Director, at alexandra@ncjustice.org or (919) 861-1468; or Mel Umbarger, BTC Senior Communications Specialist, at mel@ncjustice.org.