On Monday, April 25, 2022, the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce filed an amicus brief supporting the plaintiffs in Anderson, et al. v. Healey (No. SJC-13257), a case dealing with how the proposed constitutional amendment to add a new state tax rate will be presented to voters.
The Chamber’s brief argues that the ballot question summary and the related “Yes” statement must clearly inform voters that new revenues generated by the tax are not required to fund education and transportation. Given the magnitude of the proposed constitutional amendments, and the prolonged process needed to correct it, the Chamber argues that all voters must understand that the Legislature retains full discretion over how additional funds would be spent.
Download the Amicus Brief here: Anderson v. Healey GBCC Amicus Brief.
“Voters face an important decision in November about whether to increase the state’s tax rate,” said James E. Rooney, President & CEO of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. “The ballot summary and statement explaining what a ‘Yes’ vote means should be unequivocal in stating that the amendment does not require new revenue be directed to transportation and/or education. The voters of the Commonwealth deserve and expect transparent and accurate information.”
The Chamber opposes the proposed tax increase, and last year published an op-ed arguing against enshrining tax rates in the state’s constitution because it ties the hands of government when faced with changing economic and political circumstances.
Press and media should contact Casey Baines at cbaines@bostonchamber.com.
About the Amicus Advisory Board
The Chamber created the Amicus Advisory Board to ensure that public policy efforts are elevated to the Supreme Judicial Court and the judicial branch hears the voice of Chamber members. Members of the Advisory Board review and determine whether to file amicus curiae briefs, which emphasize the significant and far-reaching impact of the S.J.C.’s decisions on the state’s economy, the business community, the conduct of commerce, and the Chamber’s policy priorities. Learn more at the Amicus Advisory Board’s site.
About the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce
We are the convener, voice, and advocate of our region’s business community, committed to making Greater Boston the best place for all businesses and all people to thrive. We help our members and Greater Boston succeed by convening and connecting the business community; researching, developing and advocating for public policies that contribute to our region’s economic success; and providing comprehensive leadership development programs designed to grow strong business and civic leaders. Learn more at BostonChamber.com.