WHEREAS: Despite recent concerns over drops in the cost of oil, North Dakota still finds itself in an enviable position of entering another biennium with over one billion dollar in surplus; and
WHEREAS: Despite these concerns, projections in oil extraction tax revenue remain higher than original forecasts; and
WHEREAS: Surpluses are, in essence, an indicator that government is overcharging the taxpayer for the services it provides that taxpayer; and
WHEREAS: Surpluses are as much a sign of fiscal mismanagement of taxpayer dollars as deficits are; and
WHEREAS: Surpluses provide government with too much opportunity to spend lavishly, especially on endeavors that are not within the purview of government to provide or buy, simply because "the money is there"; and
WHEREAS: The state Constitution forbids the state from returning surplus dollars directly to its citizens; and
WHEREAS: Seven other states do not have a personal income tax, and while they are not in the excellent fiscal shape our state is, they still manage to adequately provide services to their citizens; and
WHEREAS: A 0% corporate and personal income tax rate will allow the legislature the opportunity to quit overcharging its taxpayers for the services the state provides, while still upholding the Constitution, and allows them the flexibility to re-initiate income tax collections should they become a necessity, using a fairer flat tax system.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the people of North Dakota call on the Legislative Assembly of this state to adopt legislation reducing the personal and corporate income tax rate to 0%.