Perhaps politicians should consider the following discretionary income variables when deciding our state and federal tax base (how much each person should pay)?
- The number of tattoos bought/inked per month: If the populace has money to spend on tattoos then they can certainly afford more taxes. Tattoos reflect ones ethical and moral priorities in life. "Let's see, shall I spend money on a tattoo or help feed and shelter the poor?"
- The amount spent on candy per month: Especially the amount paid for through food stamps. Americans spend at least 4 billion on candy for Halloween and Easter.
- The amount spent on jewelry per month: If citizens have enough money to spend on adornments then they can afford to ensure that teachers are paid as much as skilled laborers. Diamond wedding rings and fancy jewelry? Absolutely, once everyone is fed, sheltered, and educated. (more about wage disparity between laborers and teachers)
- The amount spent on alcohol per month: Americans spend about 57 billion per year on alcohol.
- The amount spent on carbonated sugar beverages per month:
- The amount spent on tobacco products: Americans spend about 90 billion on tobacco products per year. This doesn't include the reported tax-free billions spent on marijuana.
These items are referred to as discretionary income variables. They are what one has left over after paying for the necessities each month.
While there are dozens of other such variables these six address our addictions, our vanity, and gluttony. Mo betta to support health and compassion. Yes?
Comment or add to the list.
