The writer is owner and president of Silver Forest, Inc., a wholesale jeweler in Bellows Falls.
BRATTLEBORO-As a proud business owner, I support a higher marginal tax rate on the top income earners, particularly at the $500,000-and-above rate.
While some may see this as a burden, I firmly believe it is our responsibility, as successful members of society, to contribute proportionately to the well-being of our community.
I understand the importance the role that businesses play in driving growth and prosperity. However, I also recognize that our success is intrinsically tied to the health of the communities in which we operate.
H.829, which would have been funded by a wealth tax, was directed at addressing one of Vermont's most pressing needs, housing. This bill would have improved the quality of life for Vermonters who are housing insecure by increasing the availability of housing stock over the next 10 years.
A higher marginal tax rate would have let us find a way forward in solving one of our state's most visible challenges - and, in turn, create a more stable and equitable society, which ultimately benefits businesses like mine.
As business owners, we have a vested interest in ensuring that our employees are taken care of, both inside and outside the workplace. We also have a moral obligation to take care of our neighbors and community.
I urge my fellow business owners to consider the greater good and to support measures that promote economic justice and shared prosperity for all Vermonters and elected officials, lawmakers like Emilie Kornheiser, who support these policies.
Let us embrace our responsibility to give back to the communities that have supported our success and ensure a brighter future for generations to come.
Ben Madow
Brattleboro
The writer is owner and president of Silver Forest, Inc., a wholesale jeweler in Bellows Falls.
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