Two battle for Idaho District 9 position
Democrat Wayne Fuller said he believes the budget, tax on groceries to be critical themes for the Gem State
By Larry Meyer
Argus Observer
Thursday, October 30, 2008 12:57 PM PDT
WEISER — Weiser Democratic Idaho State Senate District 9 candidate Wayne Fuller is campaigning on a promise to work toward having the sales tax on groceries phased out and make good decisions on the state budget.
“Idaho is one of the few state-that imposes a sales tax on groceries. This tax really hurts families, elderly people and all citizens,” Fuller said.
Large increases in food prices plus the sales tax have put a strain on families, Fuller who formerly served as a district judge, said.
“Phasing out the sales tax on groceries will provide some economic relief and justice,” he said.
Fuller said his second issue is the state budget.
“I would work for a wise decision on the budget,” he said. “I support the 1 percent holdback (for state agencies) but believe that critical services should not be cut.” Those services include Meals on Wheels, he said, commenting eliminating that service could force some people into nursing homes. He feels more should be done for people who are suffering economically, he said.
He said he is pro-family and a strong advocate for the middle class, for small businesses, farmers and ranchers. He said he would support providing tax incentives to alternative energy companies and related manufacturers to bring more jobs to Idaho. Also a former deputy prosecutor and special assistant attorney general, Fuller has continued to provide free legal services as a community outreach, helping the elderly and low income people.
“I wanted to give back to the community,” he said.
Fuller and his wife, Margaret, who writes Idaho trail guide books, have five children and seven grandchildren. He serves on the board of the Weiser Senior Center and the board of the Elderly Opportunity Agency, plus he has served as an officer in the Kiwanis Club and as a church leader.
