Pennsylvanian's Paying Too Much In Taxes

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Philadelphia (CBS) - Matt Brouillette, the President and CEO of the Commonwealth Foundation, talked with Dom Giordano on Talk Radio 1210 WPHT about Pennsylvania's tax rate and ongoing budget impasse.

Brouillette believes residents of the commonwealth are already paying too much in taxes.

"Pennsylvania is number ten in the nation in the state and local tax burden. When it comes to what we are paying in taxes, that's a list that you don't want to be tops in, and here we are in the top ten in the country."

He stated the solution to our budget problems is to reign in spending.

"We don't have a revenue problem. Clearly, Pennsylvanian's are paying enough in taxes to pay for the government that we need. Our challenge is the spending side of the equation and the fact that we're still dealing with antiquated systems. Whether it's running liquor stores or pension plans that are outdated and far too expensive, that's where a lot of our money's going. We have to reform those things if we ever want to pay less and reduce that tax burden that we're shouldering today."

Brouillette called on taxpayers to make their voices heard to legislators currently involved in budget negotiations.

"You can rest assured that the 'gimme gang,' the folks that want more, and more, and more are lighting up the phones, they're sending emails, they're darkening the doors of our elected officials. If the taxpayers want to give more, they can remain silent, but otherwise, they ought to let their elected representative and Senator know that they pay enough."