There are predictions spreading that the Colorado's population will grow from 5 million to 7 million people by 2030. That is due to a strong economy, the famous Rocky Mountain quality of life and low taxes.
However, as Daily Mail reported, these factors could also be the reason for the hindrance of its success. The contradiction is most obvious when the rubber hits the aging and unfunded roads of Colorado.
John Hickenlooper, the state's Democratic governor, tries to look for ways in squeezing more income for the roads coming from the budget. The Republicans, on the other, do not want to interfere with the renowned 1992 constitutional amendment known as TABOR, which keeps a tight tax maximum.
According to Aurora Sentinel, that would be igniting a battle over the size of government in a lasting battleground state, just as the presidential election is in full swing. Michael Fields, Director of Americans for Prosperity Colorado, said that the budget battle plays to people everywhere who do not wish for the politicians in deciding for them. That would be the easiest way in getting more revenue.
As for the Liberals, they think it would lead to a disaster, most especially in a growing state. According to Tim Hoover, Colorado Fiscal Institute spokesman, what needs to be done it to stop fighting essential priorities like roads against other important concerns such as schools and colleges.
Denver stated that so far, the low-tax crowd is winning that even Hickenlooper recognizes that raising taxes is not a popular act right now. The Republicans are also against his hopes to change the classification of a hidden fee in the budget to clear revenue.
"Voters are so angry at all forms of government and will vote it down," Hickenlooper added.
As for the Republicans, they treat the growing Medicaid spending as the real problem. Under the Affordable Care Act, Colorado spends around $2.5 billion on health care plan for the poor. The Grand Old Party (GOP) leaders also proposed issuing $2.5 billion in bonds for critical road projects.
Colorado Springs Republican Sen. Kent Lambert, who is also the Joint Budget Committee Chair, said that there are a million factors and political interests at play that make all people paralyzed. As a response, they are all looking for alternatives.
