Letter: Nevadans need to back Guinn’s tax proposals

Thursday, Feb. 6, 2003 | 8:55 a.m.

I can't count the number of recent studies that have found Nevada to be at the bottom of lists of community well-being. The headlines have read "Nevada among the 10 worst for kids' well-being;" "Nevada still lags in prenatal care;" "Nevada ranks 38th in women's health;" and "Nevada leads the nation in suicide rates."

Let's face it, Nevada is in a crisis situation. Not only do we have below-par schools and services, we tax the poor at a higher percentage than the rich. Our state's fast-growing population needs aren't being -- and can't be -- met by our existing tax sources.

Gov. Kenny Guinn is right to broaden the tax base to try to meet the needs of our communities in education and social services. A broader-based tax -- with a business tax -- will reduce Nevada's vulnerability to the boom and bust cycle. Legislators and the public should support Guinn's efforts to broaden and stabilize our tax base. Our state deserves good social programs and needs a good education system.

TOM DURANTE