Raleigh, N.C. –  Democratic Legislative Leaders are now meeting, in closed door sessions, to craft a final state tax and spending plan; there is no open debate, no public input, and little opportunity for the media to give the public accurate or detailed information.  According to news reports, Democrats are in agreement to raise state taxes by $1 billion or more; it appears the debate now centers on which taxes will go up and which North Carolina families and businesses will be paying more.

Last week, Governor Beverly Perdue called on Legislative Democrats to conclude their negotiations quickly, and pass a budget saying she did not “care” which taxes were raised.

Senate Republican Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) said, “The Democratic debate centers on which tax increases they’re going to enact; proposals that will only cost more jobs.  We have record-high unemployment and Democrats not only steadfastly refuse to eliminate wasteful spending, they refuse to hold any kind of open debate to explain why.  We don’t need more private, invitation-only, closed door meetings – so this is a challenge to Governor Perdue: Let’s have joint appearances across North Carolina and debate in the open the state budget and our policy differences on the issues of taxes and spending.  That kind of frank dialogue is past due.  I propose at least five such debates over the next two weeks; the events should be moderated by members of the press, including the capital press corps and local media, and should include a public comment and direct question component.  This will allow us to incorporate ideas, comments, and proposals from the people of North Carolina.”

House Republican Leader Paul Stam (R-Wake) said, “When Democrats debate taxes and the budget solely among themselves, taxpayers are rarely heard.  It is like committing lambs to the wolves to be devoured.  This should end.”