Georgia Can't Afford Another Lost Decade

Overview

Our state has options. Instead of further disinvesting in programs that improve health and economic outcomes for Georgians, lawmakers should approve commonsense policy options to raise revenue and soften the impact of COVID-19, soaring unemployment levels and an ongoing public health crisis that affects every Georgian.

What do Budget Cuts Affect?

How Can Georgia Raise Revenue?

Lift the Tobacco Tax

Georgia's tobacco tax is lower than all but two other states. Lifting Georgia's tobacco tax from 37 cents per pack to the national average of $1.81 could generate $600 million in revenue per year.

Trim Back Tax Breaks

Georgia gives out $9.8 billion in annual tax expenditures, credits and loopholes. Our state should evaluate the return on investment and roll back special-interest tax breaks.

Eliminate the “Double Deduction”

Only taxpayers who itemize can take advantage of the double deduction, and this applies to the state's high earners. Eliminating Georgia’s itemized tax break for state taxes could raise $175 million annually.

Sample Posts for Social Media

Georgia’s state leaders must tap into bipartisan, common-sense proposals to increase revenue. Lifting Georgia’s tobacco tax to the national average could raise $600 million in revenue per year. https://gbpi.org/2020/georgia-cant-afford-another-lost-decade-options-to-increase-state-revenues-to-close-budget-shortfalls/ #gapol

Georgia already spends less per resident than it did before the last recession. Lawmakers must make an effort to immediately raise revenue, as budget cuts will accelerate a massive economic downturn that harms Georgians in every community. https://gbpi.org/2020/georgia-cant-afford-another-lost-decade-options-to-increase-state-revenues-to-close-budget-shortfalls/ #gapol

Painful budget cuts are not the only option available for Georgia. Lawmakers can tap into these proposals to immediately increase revenue while not affecting the amount of taxes paid by the vast majority of families. https://gbpi.org/2020/georgia-cant-afford-another-lost-decade-options-to-increase-state-revenues-to-close-budget-shortfalls/ #gapol

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Budget and Taxes

Spread the Word: Raise Revenues for Georgia

Jennifer Crane June 19, 2020

Georgia is facing an economic and fiscal crisis that threatens the state’s ability to fund critically-needed programs and …

Budget and Taxes

Raise Revenue to Protect Georgia Families

Alex Welch June 11, 2020

Dear Governor Kemp and Members of the Georgia General Assembly, Thank you for your work in service of …

Budget and Taxes