Tax Hike To Be Revived?

Supporters of a tax increase proposal that was shot down by a single vote last week are taking steps to bring back their bill.

Earlier today on the House floor, Rep. Al Park, D-Albuquerque, made a motion to “reconsider” House Bill 270. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Mimi Stewart, also an Albuquerque Democrat, would do away with certain income tax withholdings and generate more revenue for the state.

After a brief debate, and an unsuccessful attempt to derail the motion, the proposal to reconsider was approved by a voice vote.

That means the bill is returned to the desk of House Speaker Ben Lujan, D-Santa Fe, and is eligible to be voted on once again. Such a vote could take place tomorrow, Stewart said.

House Bill 270 was rejected last Friday by a 34-33 vote. It would generate an estimated $90 million for the state in the upcoming year.