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We chose this story because of the clear factual ingredients: The state, like most, is in deep financial trouble, and the industry which owns most of the land in the state pays under 2% of taxes. The overall tax burden is clearly disproportionate against the very poorest,
and the proposed increases would still have left taxes on the wealthiest citizens and timber industry well within modest regional standards. An impartial observer would be hard-pressed to find these basic facts represented in the industry-financed media version of the story.
People who were able to inform themselves about the basic facts were willing to vote for the state’s public interest and the fairness of the proposal, regardless of the fact that they were wealthy. Less educated people were swayed by the ad blitz and actually voted against their own interests.
Corporations simply do what they are chartered to do – spend as much money and push as hard as they can for their special interest. The missing ingredient is push back -- to have checks and balances of an educated, well informed public.
This story is one of the most universal themes one could imagine: A sense of fairness and looking to do the right thing in a mad mad world. Please read the Time Out For Unity Basic Principle.
Two specifics of the story are taxes and media.
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Voice your concerns on current issues to congress or to the media
Our Media Voice
Their theme: "Did you know that you are not the media's customer, you are the media's boss?"
For research and advocacy on issues of tax fairness
Citizens for Tax Justice
Whatever your view of fairness, you'll see a clear presentation of the issues in the present tax system.
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Stories | Making Sense | Taking Action | Passing It On 
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Republican Governor's Attempt For Fairness Fails