While the task of closing the state's budget deficit occupies much of the Legislature's attention, efforts to instill greater transparency in the state's tax system have not abated. ONE Massachusetts allies MassPIRG and Common Cause are asking the Senate to embrace the transparency measures adopted by the House. This includes the creation of a state budget website that makes transparent much of state spending and revenue sources for all state agencies, including quasi public agencies and provisions to provide greater transparency of ten refundable or transferable tax credit programs granted to businesses in Massachusetts.

 

The measures would help the state restore public confidence in government by making it easier to see how revenue is both raised and spent. It would also better enable the Legislature and advocacy groups to assess the efficacy of tax credit programs aimed at stimulating economic development.

 

At the federal level, 8th Congressional District Representative Michael Capuano is advancing the Shareholder Protection Act, which require CEOs to fully inform their shareholders of candidates and causes to be supported or opposed, and require shareholder approval for any political expenditure. Also circulating in Congress is the Fair Elections Now Act, which would let Congressional and Senate candidates opt out of the money chase by choosing into a matching fund system that would magnify the power of small donors. Participating candidates would have to agree not to accept money from lobbyists or interest groups.

For more information on how you or your information can get involved in this campaign or to receive or host free trainings from ONE Massachusetts, feel free to contact me today!

Thank you,