The plan from Republican Congressman and gubernatorial candidate Mark Green would exempt some of seniors' pension income from state taxes. It would start in 2008 with about $2,500 exempt, with the eventual goal of exempting up to $20,000.
If adopted the plan would cost the state nearly $20 million in just the first year. Green says the price tag is worth it because of the purchasing power seniors bring to Wisconsin. Thirty-four states currently have at least a partial tax exemption for pension income. Green says Wisconsin is falling behind, and seniors are moving on because of it.
Democratic Governor Jim Doyle's campaign says the plan contradicts Green's record in Congress, where they say he repeatedly voted against measures that could have saved seniors money.
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