Issue Position: Economic Independence

The free enterprise system is the most effective known. Economic freedom is an essential ingredient to human liberty and builds individual human dignity as well as improving the general welfare of the state.

Although we have one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, it's no comfort to those who want to work and can't find a job. It's no comfort to farmers, ranchers, fishermen, small business people, automobile dealers, realtors, and contractors who see themselves laying off employees or even worst, going out of business. They want answers, and so do you, about what we can do to get our economy back on track.

Nationally, about 47% of Small businesses primary obstacle is high taxes and over 63% of Small businesses support a cut in payroll taxes. About 25% of Small businesses say government regulation is over burdening and over 60 % of Small businesses plan layoffs this year. Only about 20% of Small businesses plan to purchase new equipment.

The state must provide an unencumbered business-friendly environment for individual initiative and private enterprise that creates jobs and increases personal income. Government regulation and taxation redistributes and reduces income; they do not create it. As a conservative, I support removing the excessive taxation and needless bureaucratic regulations that hamper economic growth.

Tax policies that discriminate against marriage undermine our society. I support tax policies that help families afford children by natural birth or adoption and the right to pass onto the next generation the fruits of the family's labor.

We pay taxes to local, state and federal governments that are excessive. Government spending should not increase more than population growth and inflation combined. Incorporating this principle in a Taxpayer Protection Act, would result in an overall reduction in tax rates.

The best way to promote economic growth is to reduce the overall tax burden on Louisiana's businesses and individuals. When economic times are hard, government must reduce spending. Raising taxes to provide preferential treatment for some over others is wasteful and unfair.

America has the highest business tax rate in the world. I support the elimination of capital gains tax. Reduce business tax to 12%. Reduce payroll taxes by 50% for at least 2 years. Allow small businesses to write-off 50% of new equipment. And eliminate the death tax.

I support modernization of the Port of Iberia as a major economic opportunity for our district.

As a conservative, I support the elimination of discriminatory practices against our exports. Trade agreements should be entered into and maintained on a basis of true reciprocity. I support the strengthening and promoting of safeguards from imports that negatively affect the welfare of our local businesses and families.

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