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Background on the sales tax amendment
Minnesotans will vote on a constitutional amendment to increase the state sales tax by 0.375% to pay for environmental and cultural programs.
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The proposed tax increase amounts to 38 cents on a $100 purchase. The current tax is $6.50 per $100 statewide, but higher in some areas. The new money would be divided among projects related to clean drinking water (33% of the proceeds), natural areas and wildlife habitat (33%), parks and trails (14.25%) and arts and culture (19.75%). Must be approved by a majority of all voters - not voting on the question counts as a "no" vote.
Wording of the amendment: Shall the Minnesota constitution be amended to dedicate funding to protect our drinking water sources; to protect, enhance, and restore our wetlands, prairies, forests, and fish, game, and wildlife habitat; to preserve our arts and cultural heritage; to support our parks and trails; and to protect, enhance, and restore our lakes, rivers, streams, and groundwater by increasing the sales and use tax rate beginning July 1, 2009, by three-eighths of one percent on taxable sales until the year 2034?
Here are arguments for and against the amendment from people on both sides of the issue.
YES
In November, every Minnesota voter will have the opportunity to vote for the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment. This amendment would invest in Minnesota’s quality of life for future generations. It is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to pass on what we love about Minnesota to future generations.
This amendment would create four new funds to invest in the following: 33 percent towards clean water; 33 percent to fish, game and wildlife habitat; 19.75 percent to youth arts access; 14.25 percent to parks and trails. These are all areas that add to Minnesota’s high quality of life.
The clean water fund would help fix Minnesota’s water problems and water infrastructure. Sadly, 40 percent of our tested waters are so polluted they fail to meet basic health standards. Nothing is more important than having clean water to drink and for fishing and swimming. By voting yes, we can make sure that your kids can swim in the lakes you did.
Minnesota has a proud tradition of outdoor sports. Hunters and anglers around the state know that this is the best conservation chance they will ever have. Local sportsmen and women will have input on how and where the funds are spent, with legislative oversight.
The remaining funds would be split towards helping ensure youth arts access and on education and parks and trails.
For the average family of four, this investment will cost less than $5 a month. This is a small price to pay to protect the things we value. It is important to note that there will be citizen input and mandatory audits, making sure the funds are invested wisely. This November, vote yes on the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment.
Charlie Poster
Communication director, Vote Yes Minnesota
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