On Tax Increase Limitations: Part II — Evasion and Transcendence

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.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 6

Keywords: tax increase, tax, balanced budget, tax expenditure, state and local tax. budget, fiscal policy

JEL Classification: E62

Accepted Paper Series