Fiscal Conservatism: what Pittsburgh and PA need? (income, income tax)

[kpoeppel]

In the past few months, I have posted several links to the Conservative/Libertarian think-tank called "Allegheny Institute." The publications of this group are highly partisan, bold, and probably controversial. In my opinion, they are very convincing.

It's no secret that the job growth in Pittsburgh and much of PA is very slow compared to the nation as a whole. Does PA need a strong dose of fiscal conservatism to revive the economy? Will that work, or just make things worse?

Do we need "right to work" laws like in the South? Will that create or kill prosperity? Are the public-sector unions a big problem for taxpayers, or is that just ideological pap?

Personally, I tend to agree with Allegheny Institute. To me, it seems the only way to attract more jobs and businesses to PA is to create a better business environment. Historically, the region has been very distrustful of Big Business, and for good reason. Thank you, Robber Barons.

So what do you think? Would Fiscal Conservatism launch PA into the 21st century or set it back to the 19th century robber baron days? Please weigh in!

[MaryS80]

I've always believed that the state income tax is doing more harm than good. When large companies are looking to relocate, that is one of the more important things they consider. When individuals relocate, it is also something that may be important.

[kpoeppel]

MaryS80,

I see you are from TX. I have heard that TX has no income tax. I am also aware that most of TX has a booming economy.

[kpoeppel]

From the Pittsburgh Tribune Review editorial page:

"Dig a Hole, Fill it Up"

[guylocke]

I am also aware that most of TX has a booming economy

Texas has many problems at the moment, too! lol.

A few states have no income tax, but most do.

[kpoeppel]

Right...most of their "problems" are due to rapid population growth. It would be nice if Pittsburgh had those kind of "problems" instead of population decline.

[guylocke]

It would be nice if Pittsburgh had those kind of "problems" instead of population decline.

Really? I bet a lot of those cities would disagree. We can always try to attract new people to our city. What are they supposed to do? Try to convince people to leave?

[kpoeppel]

Another opinion piece:

"Pittsburgh's Distress"

According to that piece, Pittsburgh's spending is out of line with cities of similar size.

[danwxman]

Originally Posted by MaryS80

I've always believed that the state income tax is doing more harm than good. When large companies are looking to relocate, that is one of the more important things they consider. When individuals relocate, it is also something that may be important.

Umm...just to let you know, PA has one of the lowest state income taxes in the country, and it is lower then all of the bordering states.

The corporate net income tax on the other hand is a different story.

[kpoeppel]

I think that's what MaryS80 was talking about...the corporate net income tax.