Public Opinions
Tough Choices Ahead: An AARP Iowa Revenue Survey of Residents 18+
Research Report
Susan L. Silberman, Ph.D., AARP Knowledge Management
March 2004
In Iowa, the Governor and legislators are trying to close a $336 million shortfall in the 2004-2005 budget. With sharply lower state revenues - especially corporate taxes - and a rising demand for state services amidst the escalating cost of health care and Medicaid in particular, tough choices are ahead for the Hawkeye State.
AARP's telephone survey of 801 randomly selected age 18+ Iowa residents found:
- 87 percent opposed to cuts in health care and long-term care services for older persons and people with disabilities to help balance the state budget
- considerable support for raising revenues by increasing taxes on liquor (82%), wine (80%), beer (78%); adding a temporary tax on households with incomes over $200,000 (73%), increasing the cigarette tax (72%), and closing tax loopholes and exemptions (68%)
- 76 percent opposed to increasing the gas tax and 72 percent, the state income tax
The survey was conducted between February 6 and 17, 2004 by Woelfel Research, Inc., and the report prepared by Susan L. Silberman, Ph.D., of AARP Knowledge Management who may be contacted for further information at 202/434-6339.