The Last Word - January 2009

The Last Word

A budget shortfall has caused lawmakers to search for additional revenue. Do you support a tax increase for the mining industry?

Tim Crowley, President, Nevada Mining Association, Reno

It’s likely that taxes will need to be raised in order to provide essential state services. The Nevada mining industry would support new taxes that are broad-based and include all sectors of the economy. Mining will continue to work with leaders and businesses to ensure everyone pays their fair share.

Christine Harvey, Owner, The Design Factory, LLC, Las Vegas

Tax increases targeting any industry should not go forward without a clear statement of why the industry is being targeted. What are the motivations? If that question is unanswered, I would not support increased taxes on mining, gaming or any other industry. Additionally, the rural communities most impacted deserve more input.

Dennis Layton, Principal, Heritage Surveying, Las Vegas

I’m generally against tax hikes, but in this case I favor a modest increase if the monies generated flow directly toward transportation rehabilitation. The existing tax rate is low enough to support the modification without losing business and improved roadways would decrease commuter times, thereby saving money for all.

Jesse Wadhams, Attorney, Jones Vargas Reno

I do not support increases in industry specific taxes (gaming, mining, insurance and banking) nor do I support adding additional industries to that list. Public needs should be addressed with broadly and fairly applied taxes. The Legislature should be looking to smooth out the revenue flow, not add more volatility.

Mike Olson, Chairman, Nevada Contractors Association

Mining is a vital industry to Nevada’s economy, contributing $200 million a year in taxes and employing 14,700 people with an average annual salary of $67,392. It’s premature to announce support or opposition for a tax proposal without first seeing the proposed legislation. It’s something that we will be following closely during the upcoming Legislature.

Claudia Briggs, Dir. of Comm., Nevada State Education Association

Lawmakers need to look at all abatements and exemptions to all industries in the state, including mining. Specifically, the many allowable deductions the mining industry currently enjoys which, if eliminated, would make available some $141 million dollars. NSEA will continue to work to see this budget crisis is responsibly resolved.