I just saw a Tweet by Assemblyman Scott Hammond (R-13) where he invited me to take a look at his new campaign website. Since Assemblyman Hammond is my assemblyman, I did go to take a look and I found it interesting. Right on the front page is an article titled "Clearing Up The Lies". You see, Assemblyman Hammond was recently on Face-To-Face with John Ralston in a debate with his Senate 18 opponent, Richard McArthur.
Ralston showed a video clip where then candidate Hammond stated, “I want people to look at me and if I tell them I won’t raise your taxes I want them to understand that I won’t. You know, I walk up to my commitments and I keep them. When I tell you face-to-face that I’m not going to raise taxes, I don’t think I have to sign a piece of paper to prove it.” (More info HERE)
In the 2011 session, Assemblyman Hammond did vote to extend the $620 Million in taxes which were set to expire or "sunset". The interesting thing about this is, on his website, Hammond states "The extension of the sunsets did not increase taxes."
Although the extension of these sunset taxes technically did not increase taxes, the point is that thanks to Assemblyman Hammond we are currently paying $620 Million more in taxes today than we are supposed to be paying!
If today we are paying $620 MILLION in taxes that we were promised we would not be paying today, how is that not a tax increase? Are you as tired of the "Doublespeak" as I?
Hammond goes on to say in his website "No one person, business or family is paying more in taxes now than they did before I took office."
Exactly.
We're not paying any MORE but the fact is WE SHOULD BE PAYING LESS!
I don't know about you but if our elected officials promised us a "temporary" tax that would expire in two years, shouldn't they keep their word and let the taxes expire when they were promised?
Assemblyman Hammond is currently running for the State Senate 18 seat against Assemblyman Richard McArthur. Hammond has already stated publicy that he supports making the $620 Million in "temporary" tax PERMANENT.
I think the taxpayers in Nevada would rather see these "temporary" taxes disappear as promised and have their elected officials keep their word, for a change.
I think you can see why you must tell the candidates that "If you don't sign the Tax Pledge, you don't get my vote!"
As a candidate for Assembly 13, I have signed the Tax Pledge and am the only Assembly 13 candidate to do so.
Assemblyman Richard McArthur is running for the Senate 18 seat, has one of the most conservative voting records in the Assembly and has also signed the Tax Pledge. He is also the only candidate for Senate 18 to do so.
The choice is clear, if you don't want your taxes raised and would want the "temporary" taxes to be temporary, tell the candidates, "If you don't sign the Tax Pledge, you don't get my vote!"
More than 1,000 government employees made over $200,000 in total compensation in 2011 Pop quiz time. Who made more in base pay in 2011: Gov. Brian Sandoval — at $143,426.25 — or the parks director for the City of Reno? Who made more in base pay in 2011: Any of Clark County's 15 top-paid senior attorneys or Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto, who earned $140,389.37? Finally, who made more in base pay in 2011: Gov. Brian Sandoval or the building and safety director for the City of Las Vegas? Answer: in every case, the local government employees. Reno's parks, recreation and community services director made $148,991.80 in base pay and $208,943.38 in total compensation. Fifteen senior attorneys in Clark County made $152,372.80 and well over $200,000 after including benefits and other pay. Las Vegas' building and safety director made $154,101.76 and a whopping $260,969.85 in total compensation. This information comes from TransparentNevada.com — a website provided by the Nevada Policy Research Institute and dedicated to serving Nevada's public by providing transparency on all aspects of state, county and city governments.
The Nevada Constitution is clear, it is unconstitutional to have a State income tax. Yet, we do have an income tax in Nevada. It's called a payroll tax. This is a tax that a business must pay based on the money, or income, they pay their employees. The more employees a business has, the more they have to pay. As this tax is based on the income of employees, it is an income tax. As Nevada continues to go through tough economic times, we need to be talking about ways for businesses to expand and hire employees. Eliminating the payroll tax is a huge step in the right direction. We need to reward businesses for creating jobs. Many of our current Assemblymen and State Senators are not only in favor of NOT eliminating this anti-hiring payroll tax, the want to increase it. This is why I am running for Nevada Assembly in District 13. It's time to bring some common-sense back to Nevada. It's time to eliminate job killing taxes, rules and regulations which do nothing except suck the money from hardworking small busines owners and prevents jobs from being created. Support me and my campaign. Support and vote for Leonard Foster Nevada Assembly District 13!
Back in the 2009 Session, our Legislature raised taxes by $620 Million. These taxes were "temporary" and set to expire, or sunset, in 2011. However, in the 2011 Session, our elected representatives voted to extend these "temporary" taxes for another two years, again promising they would disappear in two years. Just last week, Governor Sandoval publicly stated that the new budget for the 2013 session would include keeping the full $620 Million. I guess this is how "temporary" taxes become permanent. The reasoning for not allowing the $620 Million to sunset , Jeff Mohlenkamp, the governor’s budget czar, stated that demand for “safety net (welfare) services” has supposedly “increased dramatically and continued high demand is expected.” So, according to Mr. Mohlenkamp, the $620 million is to go to essential services. Or is it? Mr. Mohlenkamp goes on to say, “All executive branch agencies must limit their agency request budget submissions to amounts listed in the attached General Fund target sheet. … These General Fund targets are…adjusted for pay-related reductions that sunset effective July 1, 2013. These reductions that have been added back include furloughs, pay rate reductions, suspension of merit salary increases, and suspension of longevity pay.” Did you get that? The $620 Million isn't going to go to "essential services", it's going straight into the pockets of public employees in the form of pay raises. As has been well reported, State and local government employees are already paid up to 30% more than the equivalent private sector worker. Here in Nevada State employees average $50,125 per year, local government employees $52,088 while the same job in the private sector average only $40,899. So, the reason for not allowing the $620 million to sunset as promised is so we can give the higher paid government employees a raise. I'm sorry, but I believe it's time for our elected officials to do what they say. We were promised the $620 Million would end in two years, we've had them for four. Now our Governor and State Senate "leaders" tell us they want to make them permanent. As your Assemblyman, I will vote against any attempt to increase taxes and will vote against any attempt to extend the $620 Million we were promised would already be gone. You can read more on this topic HERE.
Support and elect Leonard Foster for Nevada Assembly District 13!
I just received this Press Release from the Nevada Policy Research Institute. It looks like plans are already in the works to raise our taxes in the 2013 session. At a time when Nevada is just starting to recover from this recession (depression?) the last thing we need are tax hikes. This is why I am running for Nevada Assembly in district 13. Before we even talk about tax hikes I feel we first must make sure that our tax dollars are being spent wisely. That is, make sure all the agencies and departments are spending their current monies in the most efficient manner. Nevada must start to use a Budgeting For Outcomes or a Zero Based Budgeting system which other States have implemented. This will assure that our tax dollars will be spent in the most efficient manner possible while proving all the essential services Nevada needs. Please support my campaign and help being some common sense to Nevada government. Leonard Foster for Nevada Assembly District 13. NPRI: Sandoval wrong to propose raising taxes
LAS VEGAS — In response to the news that Gov. Brian Sandoval will instruct government agencies to budget as if the sunset taxes will continue in the next biennium, Geoffrey Lawrence, deputy policy director at the Nevada Policy Research Institute, released the following comments: Taxpayers lose again with Governor Brian Sandoval's decision to propose extending the so-called "sunset" taxes. This demonstrates, once again, the danger behind the concept of a "temporary" tax increase. Once bureaucracy becomes dependent on that additional revenue to sustain itself, the tax increase rarely goes away. In 2010, Governor Sandoval stated that raising taxes is "the worst possible thing you can do" after a recession. His statement is as correct today as it was then — raising taxes on job creators is exactly the wrong thing to do in the aftermath of a recession. Entrepreneurs and job creators have been planning their investments on the promise that "temporary" rate hikes in the modified business tax and business license fees begun in 2009 would disappear next year. Let there be no mistake — proposing to reestablish a tax that is scheduled by law to disappear is a tax hike. After breaking his "no-new tax" promise to voters at the end of the 2011 legislative session, it is extremely disappointing for taxpayers to see Governor Sandoval break his promise again — 10 months before the legislative session even begins. The governor is correct in noting that the massive Medicaid expansion that ObamaCare seeks to impose on the states would mean a huge new state liability beginning in the next budget cycle, one that would only grow worse over the next decades. It was disingenuous for Congress and the president to pass such a huge entitlement expansion even though they had no willingness to fully fund it themselves and so levied a huge unfunded liability on the states. An econometric analysis performed by NPRI shows that ObamaCare, unless derailed by the U.S. Supreme Court or through the legislative process, will cost the state of Nevada at least an additional $5.4 billion in Medicaid costs by 2023. That's due to the compulsory loosening of eligibility requirements and the individual mandate provision, which — taking effect in 2014 — will begin undercutting the state's ability to finance education and other services. This reality is precisely why NPRI has been critical of ObamaCare from its inception. Even in the face of ObamaCare's costs, however, Governor Sandoval was not compelled to expose the struggling Silver State economy to the prospect of higher taxes. Just last week, NPRI released an 88-page guide for cutting costs using proven techniques already implemented in other states. Solutions 2013 explicitly recognizes the impending new Medicaid burden that would be imposed by ObamaCare, but shows how to reduce spending in other areas to offset this liability without sacrificing quality. The governor and his staff should use the ideas in this publication to decrease costs while increasing results, rather than again break his pledges to state taxpayers and prospective job creators. The rising costs of ObamaCare should be the impetus to transform state government by creating charter agencies, establishing performance audits, outsourcing agency functions competitively, eliminating the billions wasted through prevailing-wage requirements, and by giving parents a choice in their children's schooling. It should not be used as a weak excuse for raising taxes on struggling Nevada families.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Candidate Leonard Foster for NV Assembly 13 (NW Las Vegas) is busy meeting the voters in his district. While walking door to door, Leonard is asking his potential constituents how he can best represent them when he goes to Carson City.Leonard Foster Campaign LogoPRLog (Press Release) - Feb 18, 2012 -
Las Vegas businessman and candidate for Nevada Assembly District 13, Leonard Foster, has been busy knocking on doors since he announced his candidacy on November 11, 2011 and is on target with his goal to meet every voter in the district.
"I look forward to the opportunity to serve the people of Nevada." Foster stated. "I know that most candidates don't start knocking on doors until after they file for office, but I started early to introduce myself to as many voters as possible."
In 1978, Leonard enlisted in the US Navy and took an Oath to defend the Constitution of the United States. As your Assemblyman, Leonard says that's exactly what he will do... follow the Oath of Office.
Leonard added, "Nevada is #1 in unemployment, #1 in home foreclosures and dead last in education. We must turn these numbers around. The people in Assembly District 13, and Nevada, are tired of 'politics as usual' and are looking for someone who will fight against more taxes, job killing regulations and fight for keeping the money in the classroom and out of the hands of the union bosses."
Leonard moved to southern Nevada in 1990. Leonard, his wife Charlene, and family live in Centennial Hills in NW Las Vegas. Leonard & Charlene are proud to say they are foster parents to 6 of their children. Leonard is keenly aware of the challenges that face the children, parents and school officials in Nevada as they struggle with the fact that Nevada is one of the lowest rated states in the nation in education. Leonard Foster believes in putting education back into the hands of parents and teachers. "Who better to make decisions regarding the children than those that care for them the most." he says.
Leonard has worked in the casino industry and is currently the owner of a water treatment business in Las Vegas which he started in 1999. Leonard is intensely aware of the challenges that small business owners face every day - over regulation and an uncertain economic climate- these are issues that Leonard will work to change when he is elected and goes to Carson City to represent those that have sent him there.
Leonard is a "common sense" husband, father, business owner and candidate and will bring that "common sense" into the legislature.
You can visit his campaign website at www.LeonardFoster.com
We have heard many times that we need to raise taxes in order to fund "essential services". As if businesses in Nevada aren't paying enough. As if there is no waste in Nevada government to cut.
If you believe we’re just not taxing businesses enough to pay for our state’s “vital” and essential services and need to “broaden” our tax base, here’s a listing I compiled of the taxes and fees we’re already burdening our business community with:
Business License Fee, Modified Business Tax, Modified Business Tax for Financial Institutions, Bank Branch Excise Tax, Incorporation Fees, Business Trusts, Limited Liability Company Fees, Limited Partnership Fees & LLLP Fees, Limited Liability Partnership Fees, Trademarks & Trade Names Fees, Uniform Commercial Code Fees, Video Service Provider Fees, Unemployment Insurance Tax, Drug Taxes, Controlled Substance Tax, Special Drug Manufacturing Tax, Excise Taxes, Cigarette & Other Tobacco Products Excise Tax, Intoxicating Liquor License & Tax, Fuel Taxes, State Motor Vehicle Fuel Tax and Aviation Fuel Tax.
Hold on…we’re just getting warmed up. There’s also the…
County Motor Vehicle Fuel Tax, County RTC Motor Vehicle Tax, Special Fuel Tax, Jet Fuel Tax, Gaming and Entertainment Taxes & Fees, City-County Gaming Tax, County Gaming Fees, Gross Gaming Revenue Fee, Pari-Mutual Wagering Tax, Race Wire License Fee, Slot License Fee – Non-Restricted, Slot License Fee – Restricted, Slot Machine Excise Tax, Slot Route Operator & Distributor Fees, State Gaming License – Annual Fees, State Games License – Quarterly Fees, Internet Gaming Tax, Insurance Tax, Insurance Premium Tax, Lodging Tax, State Transient Lodging Tax, Local Transient Lodging Tax, Mining Tax and Miscellaneous Mine Fees, Net Proceeds of Minerals & Patented Mines Tax.
Whew! But we’re not finished yet. There’s also the…
Oil & Gas Administrative Fee, Miscellaneous Taxes & Fees, Unarmed Combat Fees, Car Rental Government Services Tax, Livestock Tax, Live Entertainment Tax, Local Franchise Fee, Tax on Estates, Tire Tax, Nevada Transportation Authority Fees, Water Transfer Tax, Motor Vehicle Taxes, Motor Vehicle Registration Tax, Governmental Services Tax – Basic, Governmental Services Tax – Supplemental, Property Taxes, Real Property Tax (Ad Valorem), Personal Property Tax, Real Property Transfer Tax, Public Utility Taxes, Public Utility Assessment Fee, Universal Energy Charge and Sales and Use Taxes.
Take a breath. We’re almost there…
Combined Sales and Use Tax/State Sales and Use Tax (S.S.T.), Combined Sales and Use Tax/Local School Support Tax (LSST), Combined Sales and Use Tax/Basic City-County Relief Tax (BCCRT), Combined Sales and Use Tax/Supplemental City-County Relief Tax (SCCRT), and County Optional Sales Tax.
That’s more than 80 ways the government is sucking money out of our business community and our citizens. I am running for Assembly 13 as Nevada businesses need someone who will fight and represent them.
I have signed the Taxpayer Protection Pledge. I will fight against any and all tax increases.
Support me and my campaign and vote for Leonard Foster for Assembly 13.
Steve Gunn of the Education Action Group embraced today a collective bargaining reform I feel is desperately needed now: If collective bargaining sessions aren’t open to the public to witness and monitor, then taxpayers “should have veto power” by requiring a public vote before any such agreement can take effect.
I couldn’t agree more.
 Author unknown) – As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods — merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This year will be different. This year Americans will give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Yes there is!
It’s time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper? Everyone — yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber?
Gym membership? It’s appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.
Who wouldn’t appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.
Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plonking down the Benjamines on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.
There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants — all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn’t the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this isn’t about big National chains — this is about supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.
How many people couldn’t use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy?
Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.
My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.
OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.
Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre.
Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands. Honestly, people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.
You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so that China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about US, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn’t imagine.
THIS is the new American Christmas tradition. Forward this to everyone on your mailing list — post it to discussion groups — throw up a post on Craigslist in the Rants and Raves section in your city — send it to the editor of your local paper and radio stations, and TV news departments. This is a revolution of caring about each other, and isn’t that what Christmas is about?
Responding to homeowner complaints, Nevada has become the first state in the nation to make illegally repossessing a home a felony, and may send bankers to jail for doing such. The new law was enacted after tens of thousands of homeowners complained to lawmakers about their homes being foreclosed without proof of ownership. The outcry of consumer complaints over illegal robo-signing tactics has produced a series of lawsuits against mortgage servicing companies and banks in Nevada, which has led the U.S. in foreclosures six straight years. Read Full Story
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