taxes and conservation

Minnesota's legislature overrode a gubernatorial veto to pass a nickel a gallon increase in the gas tax and other fee boosts to pay for (fallen) bridge repair, highways and public transit Monday. Now some are wondering how this will affect voter sentiment on a proposed state constitutional amendment to boost the sales tax 3/8 cent for parks, habitat, clean water and arts. It will be on the ballot in November.

These are interesting times, and with the governor of Minnesota predicting taxpayer revolt now that he's been overridden, it's difficult to predict the mood of voters eight months from now. But a sound education campaign and explanation of why conservation needs dedicated funding -- to protect the resources and recreation that we all enjoy -- will win voter support regardless of the gas tax.

Comments

[Ted Anderson]

Minnesota Fishing Communities Discuss Dedicated Funding and its Potential Impacts

(I-Newswire) - Minnesota Anglers are sharing mixed feelings regarding the proposed Dedicated Funding Amendment due on the ballot on November 4. The bill calls for a constitutional amendment raising the sales tax 3/8th of 1 percent and dedicate the $276 million in annual revenue to wildlife habitat, clean water, parks and the arts.

After a long 10 year battle the bill has finally found the legs to make its way to the ballot. While initially excited, some outdoor enthusiasts are critical of the spending proposal. Many remember the legislation passed for the state lottery in 1990 to be the miracle fix for the environment. Profits generated by the lottery were to fund the Game and Fish Fund, Natural Resources Fund and the Environmental Fund. Much of the lottery profit has been directed away from its intended environmental funds and Minnesotans are leary that history may repeat itself with the Dedicated Funding Bill.

The fishing community has gathered to discuss the issue in recent posts on My Fishing Pals' message forum, a local Minnesota website dedicated to the free exchange of ideas on fishing related topics. While most support the bill, all want governmental accountability. While Minnesotans strive to be good stewards of the land, they hope the government becomes good stewards of their tax dollars.

My Fishing Pals ( www.myfishingpals.com ) originated in 2003 as a hobby-fishing site that welcomes Minnesota fishermen to share fishing reports, information, and other items related to fishing. In 2005 a controversial forum was created on the site so that Minnesota fishermen could address fishing and hunting issues. These controversial forums have become an avenue for hunters and fishermen to voice their opinions and concerns and, at times, defend traditional Minnesota values.