If you get caught with your hand in the proverbial cookie jar, do you 'fess up to your actions, or do you try to blame someone else? In spite of the fact that if Governor Culver and his crew had spent at just two times the rate of inflation, we would currently have a surplus, they are blaming you, the taxpayer, for not paying enough in taxes so they can spend even more!

So, how can the governor and his legislative allies tax you even more without actually raising your tax rates? Simple. Just remove the ability of Iowans to deduct the amount of federal taxes paid on their state income tax forms.

Currently, Iowans can deduct their federal tax burden from their state tax burden which saves Iowa families and businesses significant money. Even though Democratic leaders have suggested that if federal deductibility were removed, they would lower rates accordingly, they fail to acknowledge the effect that any federal tax increases would then have.

Right now, any increase in federal taxes is partially offset through federal deductibility. If that deductibility is removed, any increase in federal taxes would not relieve your Iowa taxes in any way. Removal of federal deductibility results in a tax on a tax. Any way you slice it, that is just not right. We must take this opportunity to create a smarter, more efficient state government and resist attempts to impose heavier and more burdensome tax increases. Iowans are looking for opportunities to grow our state and provide a bright future for our children and grandchildren. When we pursue the right priorities and keep government within its means, we know that our best days are yet to come.

As always, I want to hear from you. My senate number is (515) 281-3371 and my home number is (515) 432-7327 or write me at: State Capitol, Des Moines, IA 50319 or at my home address: 1313 Quill Avenue, Boone, IA 50036 or email me at jerry.behn@legis.state.ia.us.