CSE Raleigh Report: May 21st

The second week of our Legislative Short Session was a flurry of activity.

As the 2004 deadline to request and file bills rapidly approaches, legislator, lobbyists, and interest groups scurry to see their interests represented. In the House, the drafting request period has ended as has the filing date for Study Bills. In both the House and Senate, next Wednesday and Thursday will mark the end to all new bill filing for this session.

The legislature was abuzz with talk of the Governor’s continued commitment to press for an “education lottery”. The “Anti-Lottery Gang”, comprised of representatives of diverse interest groups, will begin meeting again next week to forward our common goal of opposing a State Lottery in North Carolina. As in the past, North Carolina CSE is pleased to play a part in this group united in opposition on this important issue.

Several tax incentive bills were introduced this week. The issue of tax incentives is a difficult one. As our surrounding states already utilize tax incentive programs to draw new business, many lawmakers believe that in order to compete for new industry, North Carolina must offer incentives. Although North Carolina CSE understands the theory behind offering incentives, on principle we must oppose incentives. To offer incentives to bring new businesses to our state, to often compete directly with businesses already established here and paying their share of the state tax burden, is yet another example of taxing one group at the expense of another.

In last week’s report, I told of the push for a $.75 cigarette tax (sin tax). On Thursday, May 20, the proposal was introduced in the House. HB 1577 is entitled “Increase Cigarette Excise Tax To $.75.” The study commission bill was introduced with Representatives Justice and Womble as the Primary Sponsors. CSE will continue to closely monitor the progress of HB 1577.

Plans for our Annual CSE Day are being finalized. It promises to be a great day full of good fellowship, informative speakers, good ole North Carolina barbeque, and some important lobbying to boot! HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL IN RALEIGH ON TUESDAY FOR CSE DAY!