The current budget shortfall we are experiencing in Nevada is not the result of the government not taxing its citizens enough, it is the result of government spending its citizens' money irresponsibly when times were good and the economy was strong.

Going forward, it’s clear there are two options. Either we continue to expand the size and scope of government, which requires a larger tax burden on the people of Nevada, or we take a hard look at where the state government spends the people of Nevada's money and promote an open debate about the States priorities and the proper role of government.

We must broaden and diversify the economy by providing pro-business tax and fiscal policies, incentives for out-of-state businesses to relocate to Nevada, and tax incentives for existing business to grow and create more jobs.

If elected I would like to enact common sense legislation to ease the burden government places on our citizens. Some examples include:

Repeal the recent vehicle registration fee increases.
Times are tough. Many families are struggling to pay bills and put food on the table. Last legislative session, the Legislature imposed massive car registration fee hikes – this tax hurts working families, and also decreases auto sales. If elected, I will work to repeal these regressive tax increases.

Repeal the payroll tax increase
In the 2009 session, the Legislature voted to double the payroll tax. This is not the way to deal with our budget problems. When businesses are faced with higher payroll taxes, they are less inclined to employ people. We must not hinder new job growth, and if elected, I will work to repeal the payroll tax increase while creating incentives for businesses to add more employees.

Reduce government waste by taking a comprehensive, line-by-line look at the budget.
During this recession, most families have taken a long look at their household budget and cut expenses and unnecessary luxuries. The Legislature should do the same. We need a comprehensive audit of our state budget.  We must examine each expenditure – from major operating costs to electric bills at state buildings. The Legislature must have the determination and political will to make tough choices about the budget, just like Nevada’s families do every day.