Win, Lose or Draw?
Now that the 2010 Legislative session has come and gone, we can discuss who won, who lost, who was basically a draw. Actually, there are different degrees of how much individuals win and lose based on what they hoped to accomplish, what they got done and how this all plays into the upcoming elections. So with that said, the awards go to…
Governor Mitch Daniels – Big winner. He got his property tax caps as well as lawmakers to hold the line on spending.
Senate Republicans – Winners. It was getting shaky towards the end and I was starting to wonder if I was watching the Manhattan tribe, but they held together at the end.
Senate Democrats – Draw, they’re the Senate Dems, what else needs to said.
House Democrats – Losers. The House Ds took it on the chin this session. They didn’t stop the tax caps, there was major dissention in the ranks, and the proposed Warrick County aquarium and museum tax district kept everyone here a week longer than necessary.
House Republicans – Biggest Winners. They got about 80% of their agenda through and, politically speaking, the winds are at their backs for now.
Business – Winner. Any time you can get a tax increase delayed for a year, you’re in good shape. They also scored a victory on employee classification, however, they lost on guns in the workplace.
Schools – Draw. They lost money due to the economy, but they also got more flexibility to move money around in their budgets to mitigate their financial situations.
Unions – Loser. They wanted the state to change the rules on how independent contractors are classified so more of them can be considered full-time employees and thus eligible for more union membership.
2nd Amendment Crowd – Winner. Got guns in the workplace as long as it stays locked in the car and also access to permit database restricted to media.
Local Government – Draw. The tax caps are coming, but that just means more opportunities to be creative and consolidate.
Local Government reform – Loser. But keep trying guys, I’m with you.
Redistricting Advocates – Draw. It was a loss for now, but will be back next year.
Gaming – Loser. They didn’t get any help from lawmakers this year, but this may have to be revisited next year because no one has a choice.
Anti-smoking advocates – Draw. No smoking ban, but they saved the Indiana Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Board.
Lobbyists – Winners. Despite ethics reform, anyone who hung around the rail the last days and paid attention saw how much pull they have with lawmakers and it has nothing to do with money or gifts.
Taxpayers – Biggest Winners. They get to vote on tax caps.
Media – The real winners. Because we always are!
Feel free to add your thoughts.
