Letter: Vote against HB 440 was to protect small business, avoid higher taxes

To the editor,

Brenda Cecil’s letter in the Friday, Oct. 31, 2014, issue of The Kentucky Standard regarding “pension liability fund” perpetuates a myth about pension system funding. HB 440 bill became law in 2013 but zero General Fund dollars have been directed to the liability trust fund, nor was that the intent. That “fund” is primarily a vehicle for citizens to make voluntary contributions – to send in a check – to offset the unfunded liability within that system. No one has, and the fund remains empty two years later.

On the last night of many legislative sessions, hastily drafted legislation is rushed to the floor of each chamber for a quick vote. This was the case with HB 440.

Any time we are presented an unfocused bill that has 21 statutory changes in 10 separate chapters, a lawmaker is wise to be skeptical. This is especially true when no debate is possible, and when only one section of the bill (that section I had previously voted for) has been vetted in the House using the committee system; that system ensures that a lawmaking body considers legislation in a deliberate and transparent manner, so that the public is aware and is able to participate in the process.

My vote against HB 440 voiced objections on behalf of the vast majority of Nelson Countians: one section of the bill raised taxes on most Kentuckians; and another hurt small business.

Had I voted for the bill instead of against it, an opponent could have correctly attacked me for raising taxes and hurting small business.

When a bill contains several good things, but also includes some very, very bad things, political campaigns can use either a “Yes” or “No” vote to build their case. That’s what has happened here.

It has been a high honor to serve you. Thank you for your continued trust – and your vote on Tuesday!

David Floyd
Bardstown