Cap government spending now
2:00 PM 12/13/03

It's the most reasonable proposal that probably will never become law: a limit on taxing and spending at every level of Wisconsin government. <

The state's most formidable business lobby, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, wants to cap local and state spending increases through a constitutional amendment, an exceedingly awkward way to pursue a laudable goal. <

It's extremely difficult to change the state constitution. Though our veto-happy governor cannot reject this measure, a constitutional amendment must pass both houses of the Legislature in two successive sessions - and then prevail in a statewide vote. <

Rather than wait years for this byzantine pursuit to run its course, every politician with an ounce of principle and a shred of respect for taxpayers ought to embrace this eminently sensible proposal voluntarily - right now. <

The proposed limits wouldn't hobble local services or education with a fake "freeze" on taxes, nor do they rely on complex loophole-laden formulas that reap no real taxpayer benefits. <

In fact, the WMC plan allows reasonable, measured increases in government spending, assuring stable public funding while protecting taxpayers. The group's plan would: <

Limit state and school spending hikes to growth in population plus growth in inflation. <

Limit county and community spending hikes to inflation plus new building growth. <

Local officials could try to persuade voters to approve referenda to raise taxes above these rates. In flush times, the plan would send surpluses back to taxpayers and require officials to squirrel away money in rainy day funds for inevitable lean times. <

That's a reasonable way to arrest tax hikes that have kept state and local taxes high while residents' income has languished below the national average. Citizens should be able to keep more of their own money and businesses need more cash to invest and create jobs. This proposal ensures that tax burdens remain in line with citizens' ability to pay. <

But we can't wait years for change. Instead of waiting around for a vote that might never happen, Wisconsin residents should demand that their local leaders and state legislators abide by these reasonable and specific limits. <

In the coming election year, we invite local and state politicians to promise to heed these limits. Those who go on record will get prominent credit from us - but we'll also hold them accountable. <