Anthony Petruccelli Reacts to Governor’s Budget

As the state continues to digest Gov. Deval Patrick’s budget, one local elected official has called the $34.8 billion proposal a first step.  State Senator Anthony Petruccelli recognizes that the state has increased funding needs but is ever wary of increasing taxes:

“While I am deeply aware of the need to make new investments in our transportation infrastructure, I am always concerned about further burdening middle class families in the communities I represent.” 

This morning, Petruccelli noted that the “Governor’s proposed fiscal 2014 budget is just the first step of many that will be taken between now and June that will shape the final spending plan for the Commonwealth.”

During the next six months, Petruccelli said, “my colleagues and I will analyze and debate all of the different aspects of our state budget, and we will present a budget that reflects our priorities and the priorities of the people of our respective districts.”

Patrick’s proposal, submitted Jan. 23, also asks for an increase in the income tax from 5.25 percent to 6.25 percent coupled with a reduction in the sales tax from 6.25 percent to 4.5 percent. It also doubles personal exemptions. 

Petruccelli also issued a call for community discussion about the budget. “Over the coming months, I look forward to hearing from my constituents on the many different proposals relative to the fiscal 2014 budget.”

To help continue the discussion, North End Patch is also seeking comments from the state representative covering the North End, Aaron Michlewitz, about his position on the proposed budget including the tax changes and additional spending, and in particular the tax on candy and soda and the large per pack increase in the cigarette tax.

The cigarette tax seems particularly important to several North End residents and businesses.

Patrick’s budget also calls for a total investment of $6.79 billion in education next year, with $131 million going toward early education, $226 million in Chapter 70 local aid, and $152 million toward making college more affordable and accessible.

Despite the proposed income tax hike, Patrick says that low and modest-income workers will pay less in taxes under his proposal, and only the "more fortunate see a larger increase."

"I do not submit this proposal lightly," he said Jan. 23. "I understand that many households in Massachusetts continue to struggle from the impact of the Great Recession, but I am confident that investing meaningful in education and transportation today will significantly improve and expand job growth and economic opportunity tomorrow."

Additional reporting provided by Bret Silverberg and Kimberly Ashton.