WASHINGTON (26 June) – U.S. Rep. Gus M. Bilirakis (R-Fla.), representing Florida’s 9th Congressional District, today issued the following statement after opposing the House “Cap & Trade” plan – H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009:

“As Floridians face double digit unemployment for the first time in 34 years, the last thing we need is an energy tax that will drive energy costs through the roof for families and hamstring small businesses who are trying to survive and create jobs. This deeply flawed bill will severely disadvantage American businesses and shift jobs to other nations like China and India who do not cap emissions. We must balance the need to protect our environment with the need for economic growth and job creation. Unfortunately this bill fails to effectively strike that balance and will do more harm than good.

“Congress should instead increase domestic energy production, promote energy efficiency, and encourage private investment in renewable energy technologies as part of a comprehensive plan to address our energy needs.”

on the web: Bilirakis House Site

The Pinellas School Board is considering a tax increase to make up for a $19 million budget shortfall for the next school year.

Today the board members will decide whether to approve an “intent to levy” to add .25 mill to property tax assessments, or an extra 25 cents for each $1,000 of assessed, taxable value. The money would help pay the school district’s operating costs.

This does not mean the district will increase taxes but it would give the board that option. The board would have to approve the tax again in July and September in order for it to be imposed.

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