(January 14, 2004) The California Chamber of Commerce is urging all members, local chambers of commerce, businesses and tax-paying Californians to sign on today to officially oppose Proposition 56 - the 'Blank Check' Initiative - which would make it easier to raise taxes.

Proposition 56 will be on the primary election ballot on March 2. If passed, the initiative will make it easier for lawmakers in Sacramento to increase taxes on all Californians.

A Chamber-led coalition named Californians Against Higher Taxes (CAHT) is strongly opposing Proposition 56, defending businesses and other taxpayers against unjustified tax increases.

“Our opposition needs to have a laser-like focus so California voters clearly understand that the real aim of the Blank Check Initiative is to make it easier for the Legislature to increase our income tax, sales tax, property tax, car tax, and other state taxes, year after year,” said Allan Zaremberg, Chamber president. “Proposition 56 pretends to discipline Sacramento politicians, but it actually rewards them with an open-ended blank check. All Californians, particularly small business owners, should sign on to the campaign to stop this irresponsible attempt to raise their taxes.”
 
The Chamber is encouraging active participation in the campaign against Proposition 56. For more information on how to get involved in the campaign to stop the “Blank Check” initiative, go to www.NoBlankChecks.com. We are asking small business leaders and all other California taxpayers to officially oppose Proposition 56 by adding your business to the No on 56 list.

In addition to listing your business as opposing Proposition 56, please let the campaign know if you are willing to:
1) Write a letter to the editor;
2) Be a campaign speaker;
3) E-mail your friends and family about Proposition 56;
4) Educate your employees about Proposition 56.

Please visit www.NoBlankChecks.com now to register your opposition to this costly measure and do your part to keep lawmakers from getting a “Blank Check” to raise taxes.