Measure 1 Opposition Group Shortsighted

Measure 1 Opposition Group Shortsighted
BISMARCK, N.D. - Recently, it was disclosed that a coalition led by the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) will focus resources and manpower towards defeating Constitutional Measure 1 on this November's ballot.  This measure would create a new, constitutionally protected, trust fund for excess oil tax revenues in addition to directing more funds to the general fund without legislative action. 
 
"Constitutional Measure 1 offers North Dakotan's the chance to create a permanent savings account for future generations.  While the federal government continues to deficit spend and borrow on the backs of future generations, North Dakota can harness the windfall generated by oil taxes and create a self-sustaining source of state revenue.  It is irresponsible for the AARP or any other organization claiming to support good public policy, to oppose this measure that focuses on the future prosperity of North Dakota," Dustin Gawrylow, state policy director at Americans for Prosperity of North Dakota said.
 
Constitutional Measure 1 would create a new Permanent Oil Trust Fund separate from the current trust fund which is on pace to have a balance of over $600 million by the end of this biennium.  The balance of the current fund could be transferred to the new fund with legislative approval next session; without such approval the balance of the old fund would be subject to the existing rules.
 
"This new source of revenue, combined with prudent fiscal policy, will allow for the reduction of overall tax burdens in the coming years.  Rather that squandering this new money, the legislature by putting Constitutional Measure 1 on the ballot, is asking the people to help them make the right fiscal decisions.  Many times the legislature is criticized for its shortsightedness, but this is a clear case where the legislature came together in a bipartisan way and asked the people to help plan for the future," Gawrylow concluded.

Americans for Prosperity (AFP) is the nation's premier grassroots organization committed to advancing every individual's right to economic freedom and opportunity. AFP believes reducing the size and scope of government is the best safeguard to ensuring individual productivity and prosperity for all Americans. AFP educates and engages citizens in support of restraining state and federal government growth, and returning government to its constitutional limits. For more information, visit www.americansforprosperity.org

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