Strong Economy & Fiscal Responsibility
As a former nonprofit Executive Director and the owner of my own consulting firm, I understand the challenges business owners face. I will advocate for policies that support small businesses so they can create jobs that will fuel economic growth. I support responsible fiscal policy, including making smart decisions about budget priorities. My record shows I am not afraid to make tough choices or stand up to special interests. I will make responsible financial decisions that won't leave our children with unmanageable obligations. As a businesswoman, I have always balanced my budgets, and I will continue to do so in Annapolis.
To read Ariana's blog about fiscal responsibility & what's at stake in this election, click here.
To read Ariana's Labor Day blog about employer and employee rights, click here.
The State Budget
Maryland, like most states, faces a significant structural deficit. I support a balanced approach to our budget challenges, which includes increasing revenue and also reducing spending. The majority of economists agree this is the best way to protect the state during the economic recovery. Raising taxes alone will have a negative impact on our economy, just as recovery has begun. At the same time, cutting services for our most vulnerable will only worsen the impact of the economic downturn.
Taxes & Growing the Tax Base
Increasing revenue must include growing our tax base by increasing economic prosperity, cultivating a hospitable business climate, and attracting and retaining growing companies and entrepreneurs. I believe one of the best ways to do this is by improving our transportation infrastructure and maintaining our investment in public education. People and businesses choose Maryland because of these amenities – they are our competitive edge. See my blog on improving Maryland's business climate here.
I also support the long-overdue increase in the alcohol tax to fund services for Marylanders with disabilities that was introduced by Delegate Bill Bronrott.
Pensions
I am opposed to shifting the burden of pension costs to the County. The state is better positioned to support these costs through economic cycles because of its economic diversification, stronger access to the capital markets, and broader revenue authority. (And taxpayers end up paying either way.) However, I agree we must shore up our pension funds to protect our retirees and future retirees. I am proud to be endorsed by the Montgomery County Public Schools Retirees Association. You can learn more about this challenge by reading this factsheet from the PEW Center on the States.
