Higher taxes and reverse discrimination: Didn't we tell you this is what Deval Patrick is all about?
With gas prices well over $3 a gallon and the country veering toward a possible recession, the idea of hiking the state gas tax continues to linger just out of sight on Beacon Hill.while no Statehouse leaders have embraced the idea publicly, few also seem ready to reject it entirely as they struggle to close a $1.3 billion funding shortfall.
Just this week, Gov. Deval Patrick again refused to rule out the possibility of imposing a new tax at the pump as one way to help close the state's spending gap.
"I have never opposed raising the gas tax. What I have said is that it is not my first choice," Patrick said in response to reporters' questions Wednesday. "I think I would be right in saying that it is not the first choice of most consumers in Massachusetts, especially in these times."
Senate President Therese Murray, rolling out a package of transportation reforms on Thursday, also refused to reject talk of a higher gas tax or increased tolling, although she said nothing was in the works.
Patrick also wants more funding for the Bay State's no-whites-need-apply Metco program.
For the first time in more than a decade, state lawmakers might boost the budget for the program that sends inner-city youngsters to the suburbs for schooling - a prospect that has local education officials beaming.The state money is a lifeline to the 37 school districts across the Commonwealth, including seven in this area, that have had to dig deeper into their own pockets over the past few years to keep alive the Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunity Inc. program, known as Metco. Governor Deval L. Patrick is requesting a $1.5 million increase for the agency's budget, raising it to $22.1 million.
"I certainly do believe that Metco is in need of additional funding to support the wonderful programs and opportunities, not only for our Metco young people, but also for our students who benefit from the Metco program," said Brenda Finn, superintendent of the Concord and Concord-Carlisle Regional school districts.
Mr. Patrick, there's nothing wrong with cutting spending, and nothing wrong with colorblindness. Why not try out both of these concepts? It could help ya!
UPDATE: More from the Herald and Holly Robichaud.
SECOND UPDATE: More from Michael Graham, Casey Ross and the Herald.
THIRD UPDATE: From Michael Graham.
