This November, Colorado citizens will vote on a state initiative, spearheaded by trial lawyer John Patrick Michael Murphy, that would end tax exemptions for 8,300 churches and nonprofit groups. Included in this group of organizations are the Boy Scouts, Easter Seals, Meals-on-Wheels, and Planned Parenthood.
This legislation would hurt two groups. One: the members of these non-profit organizations who would have to unjustly shoulder twice the tax burden. They would be punished for trying to give back as much to the community, and for helping those who need help the most. Second: the beneficiaries, particularly those who are poor and need the services. Programs that help the elderly, such as Meals-on-Wheels, may not be able to afford the costs. Those who benefit from the Easter Seals also would suffer if the amendment passes.
Murphy argues that non-profit organizations use many public services, and therefore should pay taxes. However, he forgets that each adult member of these nonprofit organizations are taxpayers - it is only the organization that does not pay taxes. Hence, those involved with organizations are still paying a share of their earnings to the government, and Murphy's argument is reduced to hyperbole and exaggeration.
Moreover, many of the nonprofit organizations could not afford to pay taxes. They perform valuable community services - by their very nature, they do not participate in activities to turn a profit. These organizations work to supplement government services - keeping the cost of government lower.
Although Murphy and his clan believe that their amendment, if passed, would save taxpayers some money, their hair-brained idea would destroy local community services. If the amendment receives substantial support, many other states would consider putting the legislation up to vote as well. With the need to pay taxes, many nonprofit organizations will not be able to survive. The result: A nationwide abandonment of many local community service programs.
At the base of this argument is a fundamental question of whether present-day society values personal wealth over the welfare of those less fortunate. The only motivation to pass the amendment is greed - some may believe that others are benefitting from their tax money.
The amendment would have no positive effects for the state of Colorado. Nonprofit services would be placed in serious jeopardy, as groups look for ways to meet the new tax burden. Colorado citizens should use common sense and defeat the amendment.
MATT WIMSATT/Daily