Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens blows smoke with tough talk on tax credits
When Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens criticizes the state's tax-credit programs, he sounds like a guy who doesn't understand how they work.
In a recent video message about the state's budget, Greitens complains about the influence of lobbyists and special interests in Jefferson City. "As a result of partisan politics and shady, inside deals, special interests in Missouri get more than $500 million in tax credits every single year," he says.
Few would dispute that policymaking in Jefferson City bends too easily to the wishes of a connected few. It's also true that Missouri offers a generous range of tax credits, including a program for vineyards and wine producers. A 2013 study by the Institute for Public Policy at the University of Missouri found that tax-credit redemptions had climbed to $629.5 million, an amount exceeding the state's budget for corrections ($602.5 million) and mental health ($602 million).
Ensuring that tax-credit programs provide a good return on investment seems sensible. But what Greitens calls "shady, inside deals" are effectively entitlements. Meet the criteria, qualify for the tax credit.
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