Idaho Economists Cast Doubt on Tax Cut Effectiveness

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Three Idaho economists say slashing the state's income tax rates will not help boost economic growth.

The Spokesman-Review reports that the economists' conclusions follow efforts by a legislative working committee that looked at tax reform suggestions for the 2016 Idaho Legislature. University of Idaho economic professor Eric Stuen says there is no consensus that tax cuts improve economic development in the long run.

However, he added that tax cuts can dramatically change government fiscal frameworks and budget deficits. Stuen also says fewer tax exceptions and loopholes would help ensure a transparent tax system. According to the Idaho Tax Commission, the state ranks 49th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia on overall per-capita tax burden.