State lawmakers with a legislative commission approved a water rate increase approved for those consuming close to 4,000 gallons per month
State lawmakers approved Thursday a water rate increase that will target large consumers.
Legislators with the Commission of the Treasury and Budget discussed bill 122 that would reform state Income Law.
The proposal seeks to increase water rates for those who consume over 15 cubic meters or 3,962 gallons per month.
State officials said most of Mexicali residents are above that threshold.
Assemblywoman Rocío Adame, of the National Regeneration Movement Party majority, said state water commissions are in dire straits so the increase is needed.
The lawmaker said those who care more about water consumption will be less impacted.
Water rates remain the same for those consuming less than 15 cubic meters per month, the lawmaker assured.
The bill was voted 5-1, with Assemblywoman Alejandrina Corral, of the National Action Party, voting nay.
Another bill discussed and voted by leftist lawmakers included a water rate increase for domestic, commercial, industrial and governmental use in Baja California’s seven municipalities.
Criticism
Members of the Business Coordinating Council (CCE) in Mexicali spoke out against the increase in the rate for water consumption.
Businessmen also harshly criticized the Payroll Tax increase requested by the State.
The CCE considered there is no plan to optimize funds the state plants to collect.
On Thursday, lawmakers with the Treasury and Budget Commission approved an increase of between 6 and 11 percent in the rates for water consumption.
Similarly, legislators approved setting a surcharge of 1.25 percent on Payroll Tax that will impact private companies.
Members of the CCE issued a statement addressed to the governor to express their rejection of the proposal.
“It is unacceptable to us that deficiencies and corruption that impact the cost of water are paid for by the citizens,” the Council said in the statement.
State Treasury Secretary Marco Moreno Mexia pointed out that people who consume less than 15 cubic meters or close to 4,000 gallons per month will not see an impact.
Business organizations assured the impact will be widespread.
The Coordinating Council demanded more transparency from water utilities commissions and an expense reduction from these agencies.
In addition, the Council asked for a thorough analysis of water rate increases as well as proposals to reduce expenses to improve services.
Regarding the Payroll Tax, the council stated this increase does not benefit the worker, but rather the government.
“There was a commitment not to increase taxes and a Republican austerity,” the Council said. “This government claim impacts both issues.”
Businessmen demanded the Assembly discuss the issue to review the viability of the proposals, before being approved.
Te puede interesar: Empresarios califican de inaceptable aumento del agua
