‘Tax swap’ could get shelved in Legislature

The Clarion-Ledger, 1/4/8

With a newly appointed committee studying the state’s tax structure, some believe legislation calling for an increase in the state’s cigarette tax while decreasing the grocery tax will be set aside this session.

Others, skeptical about why the study wasn’t commissioned years ago, say they’ll continue to push the so-called “tax swap” anyway.

On Thursday, Gov. Haley Barbour said former Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Leland Speed will lead a committee of about 20 in a review of the state tax code.

By the end of August, a final report with recommended reforms will be released, Barbour said.