Md. House & Senate Split On The Amount Of Tax Hikes Amidst Protest
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ)-- A tax hike is coming to Maryland but the Maryland House and Senate are split on the size of that hike.
As political reporter Pat Warren explains, both chambers agree with the governor that Marylanders should pay more.
While the House of Delegates debates the budget inside the State House, police break up a tax protest outside.
Taxpayers protested blowing their horns outside the State House Thursday afternoon to let lawmakers know how they feel about the tax hikes.
The noise was heard through open windows. Capital police reigned in the parade, ticketing at least one driver.
"I am giving you a citation for illegal use of a horn on a motor highway," the police officer said.
The $60 fine only added insult to an already-perceived injury.
"It's become almost unaffordable to live in the state of Maryland," said Carl Garrett, protester. "I think they're outrageous. I mean, the governor has hiked taxes every year he's been in office and I don't understand how he thinks he can keep taxing us and we're just going to keep taking it," he said.
The Senate wants to raise $473 million in income tax increases. The House version raises $200 million.
"Under the House plan, 87 percent of people in this state will pay no more-- not a dime more-- in income tax than they would if we did nothing," said Del. Sandy Rosenberg (D-Baltimore).
Other differences are how the teacher pensions will be transferred to local governments. And while the Senate version taxes Internet sales, the House version does not.
The House work on the budget is expected to wrap by the end of the week.
The state is also considering a bill to add a six percent sales tax to the price of gasoline.
