Richardson might compromise tax idea

Georgia House Speaker Glenn Richardson may be ready to compromise on his tax reform proposal. He has been shopping his idea of replacing all property taxes with an expanded sales taxes on goods and services.

Richardson's so called Great plan has gotten the cold shoulder from many including Governor Sonny Perdue. Opponents say it just wouldn’t raise enough money make up for the lost property taxes.

Richardson told the Macon Telegraph this week that he may propose to eliminate only that portion of the property tax that funds schools.

A spokesperson for Richardson confirmed that he is looking into that option. The move could silence opposition from counties and cities who fear the loss of control over their budget under the Great plan. School boards, especially those in wealthy counties, may not like the idea.

Any tax reform proposal hashed out during next years legislative session would need voter approval in November.