Tax reform will be the topic of discussion during a radio show Thursday in Laureldale.
From 9:05 to 11:55 a.m., callers can call in with their comments to WEEU 830 AM radio station during the Mike Faust radio show, hosted by "Mighty" Mike Faust, or stop by Boyer's Floor Covering, 3020 Kutztown Road, and ask questions to legislators about Senate Bill and House Bill 76.
Known as the Property Tax Independence Act, it replaces school district property taxes with money from varying sources. Rich Shuker, co-founder of Eyes-on-PA, a website devoted to educating the public about policy issues, said the event is another way to educate the public. Among those in attendance will be two realtors from Coldwell Banker, Rep. Jim Cox, R-129, Berks County, and sponsor of the House bill, Sen. Judy Swank, D-11, Berks County, Rep. Tom Caltagirone, D-127, Berks County.
The history of school and property taxes will also be discussed, Shuker said.
State Sen. David Argall, R-29, prime sponsor of the Senate bill, will call in from 9:30 to 10 a.m.
The senator said how to fund public schools is the number one comment he addresses at town hall meetings.
"It's just an incredibly unfair way to fund the public schools," he said Tuesday.
In all, 26 co-sponsors are needed for the Senate bill, Argall said. There are 23 co-sponsors so far. House legislation needs 102 sponsors, of which there are 90, he added.
State Rep. Mike Tobash, R-125, a co-sponsor of the House bill, said he can't participate because will be attending a public hearing of the Liquor Control Committee in King of Prussia. However, he did say the topic is important.
"The system we have now is not equitable," he said about property taxes.
Changing the reliance of property taxes takes time.
"It's a project that certainly is not easy," Tobash said.
To comment during the radio show, call 610-374-8800.