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By Marcus Vaughn, State Rep. 9th Norfolk District
In response to Secretary Monica Tibbits-Nutt's recent address to Walk Massachusetts, it's essential to critically evaluate the proposals and statements made. While her commitment to transparency is commendable, several of her assertions warrant closer scrutiny.
The proposal to install toll gantries at state borders raises significant concerns about the impact on interstate commerce and potential backlash from neighboring states. Implementing toll gantries at our border limits the interconnected nature of our interstate commerce. We need to consider the small business owners in surrounding states who may see increased costs from delivery services that cross the border or the worker who lives in New Hampshire and commutes to Massachusetts. Toll gantries at the border may seem like a minimal change, however, the trickle-down effect to those who rely on access to Massachusetts will be the most impacted.
I am also deeply concerned with Secretary Tibbits-Nutt’s comments that she is targeting “everyone with money”. It is not the duty of the residents in the Commonwealth to offset wasteful government spending. An extensive audit would better serve our constituents by providing transparency in government spending, building public trust, and holding stakeholders accountable.
The feasibility and efficacy of Secretary Tibbits-Nutt’s proposed revenue initiatives, including charges on transportation network companies, package deliveries, increases in payroll taxes, and additional vehicle excise taxes on trucks and SUVs, would impact Massachusetts residents universally, exacerbating the state's affordability crisis and further feed into outmigration. We cannot begin to implement such drastic measures without robust research to substantiate these objectives and support from Commonwealth residents. Public engagement should be paramount to maintain transparency with the residents of the state who will be footing the bill following these changes.
Massachusetts is increasingly becoming less affordable. A family of four needing over $300,000 to live comfortably (1). Additional burdens on families will lead to continued outmigration. With some of the best hospitals and universities in the country, we should focus on maintaining skilled individuals who will positively impact our economy. By further increasing costs to families, we continue to make it more difficult for residents of the Commonwealth to stay in this state.
In conclusion, I ask that the Secretary consider the consequences of these aggressive pursuits and to focus on the negative impact these pursuits will likely cause. We need to support the residents and businesses of the Commonwealth, not make it more difficult to remain in this State. I implore the Secretary to work with the constituents, give them a voice in this process, and gain a firm understanding of the concerns individuals and families have about the increased cost of living.
