Topeka ? The Kansas Senate on Thursday approved a $330 million tax increase that would raise the state sales tax rate one cent, from 5.3 cents per dollar to 6.3 cents per dollar for three years.
The 23-17 vote came after five hours of debate and numerous attempts to amend the bill. Douglas County’s senators Marci Francisco of Lawrence and Tom Holland of Baldwin City, both Democrats, voted for the measure.
The measure is seen as crucial by its supporters to fend off devastating cuts to schools, public safety and social services during one of the worst budget shortfalls in state history.
“It’s life or death for some people,” said Senate Democratic Leader Anthony Hensley of Topeka. “We have to maintain the safety net for disabled Kansans, for elderly Kansans, for people who depend on government, who unfortunately have to depend on government to survive,” he said.
The Legislature faces a $500 million revenue shortfall after cuts of nearly $1 billion over the past 18 months.
Opponents said the proposed tax increase would hurt the economy and everyday Kansans.
“Our economy is not working, so why would we raise taxes?,” said state Sen. Karin Brownlee, R-Olathe.
The measure now goes to the House where a coalition of Democrats and Republicans have unveiled a budget proposal that will require an approximately $300 million tax increase.
