Massachusetts voters spoke in overwhelming numbers, defeating question one, 70%-30%. Supporters of the question believed that by lowering the state income tax and then eliminating it entirely, the state government would be forced to reduce waste and streamline services. It seems that common sense prevailed however, and most everyone recognized that cutting 40% of the state’s revenue would decimate all social services.
HCFA says thank you to the nearly two million voters who said no to eliminating the state income tax. The great strides Massachusetts has made in the past two years since Chapter 58 was passed will be preserved. The federal funds that help to support health reform will not be lost. And our most vulnerable residents can continue to receive the services they so desperately need.
Massachusetts health reform still faces many challenges in this difficult economic climate. Maintaining and continuing our progress toward accessible, affordable health care for everyone will continue to take great effort and creative solutions. Thankfully Massachusetts voters understood the devastating impact that Question 1 would have had and chose the health and well-being of the Commonwealth instead.
Click here to see town-by-town results of Question 1.
Amy Franz
Information and Marketing Manager
