On Tax Increase Limitations: Part II — Evasion and Transcendence
6 Pages Posted: 24 Apr 2012
Date Written: April 24, 2012
Abstract
In this essay, the second of a series, we continue our evaluation of state Tax Increase Limitations (TILs) – special rules that limit state legislatures’ ability to raise taxes, such as by requiring supermajority votes. We analyze two strategies whereby majority parties can evade TILs to the extent they so desire. We further argue that these strategies have some positive normative features. The strategies designed to evade TILs may ultimately lead toward a more effective means for controlling the size of state government than TILs themselves are able to provide.
Keywords: tax increase, tax, balanced budget, tax expenditure, state and local tax. budget, fiscal policy
JEL Classification: E62
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation