Maryland PIRG 2013 General Assembly Session Priorities

Maryland PIRG is an advocate for the public interest. Our mission is to deliver persistent, results-oriented public interest activism that protects public health, respects consumers’ rights, encourages a fair, sustainable economy, and fosters a responsive, democratic government. There are hundreds of registered lobbyists in Annapolis all are looking out for one particular segment of the population or special interest; we are one of the few groups working in the Capitol whose job is to think about what’s good for EVERYONE.

Tax & budget

February 13, 2013

Jenny Levin

2013 Legislative Priorities

Sound Budget & Tax Policy
Public money should be spent for the most effective pursuit of clear public benefits or to encourage beneficial behaviors undervalued by the market. Taxes and budgeting should follow long-term planning and should be fair, reliable and guided by policy goals rather than political deals. Maryland PIRG supports legislation that:

 Makes large corporations pay what they owe by eliminating tax loopholes that put an unfair tax burden on Maryland small businesses and citizens.
 Cuts wasteful and narrow interest subsidies or subsidies that are harmful to the public health or environment.
 Budgets for preventative maintenance and public infrastructure and ensures investment in public interest priorities such as more and better public transportation, quality affordable healthcare, and higher education.

Smart Energy & Transportation Solutions
By using energy more wisely and getting Marylanders to work with a 21st century transportation system, Maryland can achieve its potential for a cleaner, safer, affordable and more reliable energy future. Maryland PIRG supports legislation that:

 Protects and introduces energy efficiency initiatives that will reduce energy waste, save money and create jobs.
 Develops and supports renewable energy sources.
 Funds public transportation projects that will reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and public health, and create jobs.

Strengthening our Democracy
The influence of wealthy special interests in the funding of campaigns has eroded public trust in our political system and has discouraged civic participation. Maryland PIRG supports legislation that:

 Encourages citizen participation in our elections, including same-day voter registration.
 Limits corporate money in politics, including closing campaign finance loopholes, strict disclosure and transparency requirements for independent expenditures, and public financing of campaigns.
 Encourages government transparency and accountability.

Safe & Healthy Maryland
Every day, our families are bombarded by a toxic soup of chemicals found in consumer products, in air, food and water pollution. Maryland PIRG supports legislation that:

 Protects Marylanders from toxic threats in their communities, consumer products, schools and workplaces.
 Phases out toxic flame retardant chemicals from household furniture and children’s products and ensures their replacement with safe alternatives.
 Requires pesticide dealers and pesticide applicators to report their pesticide sales and use to a central database, enabling public health officials access to critical data.