According to numerous ratings, Rhode Island ranks as one of the worst states for taxation and business. CNBC rates that RI tied with Maine for 45th place, due to cost of doing business, cost-of-living, and infrastructure. In addition, a state business tax burden ranking by Anderson Economic Group ranks RI as one of the top ten states with the highest taxes at 12.3 percent.

To change the course of our state economy, I will fight against big-ticket expenses that put a strain on the budget. Some include, significantly increasing hiring costs by raising RI’s minimum wage, mandated paid leave that will further burden RI employers, and continuing “free-college tuition” which increases cost-of-living.

As state representative, I will advocate to improve conditions businesses and jobs, reducing our current tax burdens, and be a voice in government that shows quality of life improves when RI is "open for business."

Rhonda Holmes

Barrington

Ms. Holmes is a Republican running for RI House, District 66.