Fiscal Reform and Colorado's budget

The fiscal knot created by TABOR, Amendment 23 and Arveschoug-Bird have been disastrous for Colorado, making it nearly impossible for us to invest in our state’s future.

While we face serious challenges in our budget today with the current economic crisis, the “ratchet down” effect of these conflicting provisions will lead to tougher times ahead if not addressed.

We must develop a longterm fiscal plan that addresses the immediate challenges we face, that enables us to invest in important programs like education, healthcare and our transportation system and that provides a firm foundation for Colorado’s growth.

Fiscal and budgeting reform will be a priority for me, including:

• Repeal of Arveschoug-Bird which causes cuts to public program funding to remain even after the general economy recovers;
• Eliminate TABOR revenue caps that prevent us from investing in our future and vital programs; and
• Legislative review of certain taxes and usage fees such as fuel fees and severance taxes.