Republicans In The News
MEDIA RELEASE: Republican Slots Alternative Brings in More Revenue
For Immediate Release Monday, October 6, 2008
Contact: Carrie Simons-Sparrow, 410-841-3401; Shannon Oxley, 410-841-3401
Republican Slots Alternative Brings in More Revenue
GOP-Backed Proposal Will Bring in At Least $730 Million More Than Constitutional Amendment
Annapolis – The slots proposal created by the House Republican Caucus will bring in at least $730 million more than the constitutional amendment authorizing slots that is on the ballot, according to numbers from the non-partisan Department of Legislative Services.
"We oppose the constitutional amendment authorizing slots because it simply is not the best deal for the citizens of Maryland", said House Minority Leader Anthony J. O’Donnell. "We have a superior plan that brings in more slots revenue and allows tax relief through responsible fiscal management. Many who have expressed opposition to our proposal often claim that it brings in less revenue that than the Governor’s plan. This is not accurate. We have offered this proposal in good faith and it deserves thoughtful consideration, not knee-jerk partisan attacks."
According to fiscal notes prepared by the Department of Legislative Services, the Republican plan would bring in $850 million in FY 2010, compared to the $90 million under the Governor’s proposal. The GOP plan brings in $26 million more that the Governor’s proposal in FY 2011 and $12 million more in FY 2012.
"It is important that the citizens of Maryland not be tricked by the misleading information that is circulating about this constitutional amendment”, said Minority Whip Christopher Shank. “Failure of the constitutional amendment does not mean that the legislature cannot come back in the 2009 session and pass our slots proposal. It is our responsibility as legislators to look out for the interests of all Maryland’s citizens and work out the best deal for everyone."
Additionally, claims have been made by various groups that opposition to the slots amendment goes hand in hand with a proposed tax increase. In fact, the Republican alternative budget proposal repeals the O’Malley tax increases and offers $3.8 billion in tax relief over the next four years.