For some inexplicable reason, Governor Manchin wants to deal with tax reform in a special session after the regular session. Considering there are 60 days in the regular session, Senator Harrison (R-Kanawha) asks why not now?

These remarks were made today in the Senate chambers:

“Mr. President, in an AP article which appeared in this mornings paper, I read that Governor Manchin’s spokesperson, Lara Ramsburg, envisions a special session dedicated to overhauling the state’s array of taxes and fees.

“Now I agree that a session devoted to tax reform is a good idea. But considering that we are less than a week into this regular session my question is why not now? Why not make this regular session a session of tax reform?

“It’s not a new topic. There was a major study done on this state’s taxes in 1999. The topic has been studied by interim committees. The information is already available.

“A special session raises some concerns. In recent years, so-called extraordinary sessions have become regular occurrences. And another special session would mean added expense to the taxpayers.

“Another concern is that in a special session on tax reform, the governor as he did in September may issue a call which is so narrow that it just puts before us a take it or leave it tax reform package and would allow very little input from the Senate and the House.

“We need tax reform. We need it now. Let’s make this regular session a session of tax reform. Let’s not delay it any longer. Let’s not have the added expense of another special session. We are here at least until March 11th. Let’s focus on tax relief and do it now.”