Government : Update from the Iowa Capitol: A FAIR TAX PLAN FOR IOWANS

Iowans are hardworking people who take pride in a job well done. It's too bad Iowa doesn't have enough workers to keep schools, hospitals and small businesses running seamlessly.

In fact, fewer Iowans are working today than when Governor Reynolds took office. That's because Republican policies are driving Iowans out of the workforce and out of the state.

Their latest tax proposals will only make things worse because they continue a pattern of more corporate giveaways and tax breaks for the super rich.

I support a tax plan that rewards work, not wealth. A fair tax plan will help families with the high cost of child care and put more money in the pockets of Iowans who are sometimes working two or three jobs to make ends meet.

The Fair Tax Plan that I support includes:

* Lowering income taxes for middle-class Iowans.

* Expanding the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit to more families and gradually tapering off eligibility as Iowans get better job opportunities and their incomes increase. On average, a taxpayer with an income of $40,000 would get an additional $600 to help cover child care costs every year.

* Doubling the state's Earned Income Tax Credit to 30 % of the federal tax credit. A single working mom with three kids could get an additional $1,000 each year.

A Fair Tax Plan is just the start. Senate Democrats believe in a comprehensive approach to fixing Iowa's workforce crisis and getting our economy back on track. That includes:

* Boosting basic funding for Iowa's public schools by $300 million. That's a better investment in the state's future than another $300 million giveaway to corporations.

* Investing our state surplus into expanding apprenticeships, career training and technical education to help more Iowans qualify for good jobs.

* Getting more parents back into the workforce by making child care affordable throughout Iowa and guaranteeing access to preschool.

* Keeping Iowans safe by renewing Iowa's commitment in public safety and justice reforms.

State Senator Eric Giddens represents Iowa Senate District 38, which includes Cedar Falls, Hudson, Traer, Dysart, Evansdale, Elk Run Heights, Gilbertville, Washburn, LaPorte City and Mount Auburn. Contact him at 319-230-0578 or eric.giddens@legis.iowa.gov