Massachusetts Ballot Questions for Election 2008
Question 1: Abolish State Income Tax (5.3% flat tax)
Although this would put $3,600 (on average) directly into the bank accounts of the average taxpayer each year, it would wipe out 40% of the state budget and take with it a whole host of social services that we've come to enjoy over the past few decades.
My Opinion: NO! This is a very bad proposal. Our economy in Massachusetts is very poor at the moment; taking 40% out of the state budget is not going to do anything but create more problems. Those social services? VERY NECESSARY. I think we have the logic of “hey it’s not affecting us, why should we care?” but guess what? It is affecting you, its going to clog up the ERs, exacerbate the homeless situation, and leave children with fewer resources then they already have. Massachusetts already has a job freeze. That 3600 into the pockets of your average taxpayer? The social implications will cost you much more I promise.
Question 2: Decriminalize Marijuana Possession
This would replace criminal penalties for possession of one ounce or less of the drug with civil penalties, making it comparable to a parking ticket.
My Opinion: DUMB. Honestly my life really isn’t going to be affected one way or the other. I don’t think decriminalizing Marijuana is going to create a new generation of smoking hippies, if you smoke already good for you keep it in moderation and you won’t go to jail, if you don’t I doubt this is going to make you into a card carrying pot head. The only thing marijuana does right now is clog up the court systems and turns good people into “criminals” because of their recreation of choice. At least with decriminalizing it the commonwealth will be getting some revenue to dump back into our economy. So I guess I will be going with a yes vote.
Question 3: Ban Greyhound Racing
Would place a permanent ban on greyhound racing in Massachusetts. This has been tried twice before and was defeated both times.
My Opinion: YES. Ban the hell out of this. Those dogs are treated very cruelly. They are breed for their racing abilities keep in cages until the event and then at the end of their prime, euthanized. If they are lucky to have a “sympathetic” owner they are given up to the “Adopt a greyhound” program, but these dogs are usually left with joint problems and social issues, not exactly the ideal family pet. Bottom line, cruelty to animals is unacceptable.
Go through the questions, educate yourself and VOTE!