Category Archives: California

Frozen Taxes?

California has been in the grips of a freeze. It’s estimated that the cold weather will cost California growers billions of dollars. You and I will feel the pain when we go to buy citrus in coming weeks — expect … Continue reading

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Health Care for All…But at What Cost?

The Governator announced his health care vision yesterday. You can find a good summary of it here. The plan would mandate that all Californians have health insurance, and the state would mandate what would and wouldn’t be covered. The plan … Continue reading

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Bah, Humbug

You own a Christmas tree lot, and it’s December 26th. What do you do with your leftover trees? Well, it’s time to throw them away…but not for one lot owner near Fresno. No, they’re not hazardous waste. Rather, the Board … Continue reading

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Did John Doe Lead to California’s Budget Surplus?

Dan Waters, columnist for the Sacramento Bee, reports today that he’s been told that one individual paid the Franchise Tax Board $200 million in back taxes under California’s amnesty program last year. An examination of California’s budget shows that the … Continue reading

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Mandated Health Care in California’s Future?

State Senator Don Perata would like all Californians to have health insurance. Having everyone covered isn’t a bad idea. Senator Perata would do this by mandating that all businesses provide health insurance for their employees (with minimum coverage guarantees), or … Continue reading

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First Property Tax Payment Due Today

Just a reminder that the first installment of property taxes for Californians must be postmarked today. Alternatively, most County Assessor/Treasurer offices will remain open late for you to make payments.

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Coming in 2007: Married but Single

California’s Legislature passed domestic partners tax legislation earlier this year. For 2007 (not 2006), qualified domestic partners are required to file as Married, Filing Jointly on their California state tax returns. However, they must continue to file as single on … Continue reading

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The Election’s Impact on Taxes

Come January, the Democrats will be in control of the House and likely the Senate for the first time in over a decade. What will that mean for taxes? First, forget estate tax reform. I can’t see it passing, unless … Continue reading

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California Ballot: Proposition 90

Finally, the last of the ballot measures on the statewide ballot. Proposition 90 looks at government “takings” — when property is condemned and utilized. This measure looks to reverse the Kelo decision in California. Opponents of this measure claim that … Continue reading

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California Ballot: Proposition 89

Proposition 89 increases corporate tax rates by 0.2% to fund political campaigns. Ignoring the issue of whether or not state-funded campaigns are good ideas, increasing California’s corporate tax rate (already one of the highest in the United States) will do … Continue reading

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