Press Releases
Republican Shame
Alabama GOP Opposition to Removing Grocery Tax Unforgivable
For Immediate Release
Contact: Jim Spearman 334-262-2221
Montgomery, AL - Alabama Democratic Party Chair Joe Turnham today said that republican opposition to one of the most humane and basic public policy changes to help hurting Alabama families is shameful and unforgivable. "Republican rhetoric about wanting to cut taxes for working families and create tax fairness in Alabama just went out the door with this vote in the Alabama Senate today. All 11 opposing votes were republican. Governor Riley and his legislative leadership are taking the food out of the mouths of hurting Alabama families by opposing this measure." Turnham protested.
"This measure would provide immediate assistance to every Alabama consumer by reducing their food bill by 4 percent. It would be an overall tax savings to nearly 80% of Alabama families and would only be a net increase to families making over $150,000 per year. In this tanking George Bush economy, Alabama's Grand Ole Party has shown it is the party of the rich and powerful and no friend to the poor, the disabled, seniors and working class." Turnham exclaimed.
This vote combined with their opposition to making big out-of-state retailers like Wal-Mart (HB 350) pay up and republican legislative opposition to the big oil and gas tax (HB326) which benefits Exxon-Mobil will haunt all republicans in the 2010 elections. Their position on these fundamental issues sends a signal that republicans come to Montgomery to represent Exxon-Mobil, Wal-mart, and folks making over $150,000, not the 80% who need relief now. We urge Gov. Riley and House and Senate republicans to reconsider and get on the side of real people for a change.
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