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Question 3: Sales Tax Won't Be Cut

BOSTON (AP) - Massachusetts voters have rejected a ballot question that would have cut the state sales tax rate by more than half.

Supporters of Question 3, which would have lowered the tax from 6.25 to 3 percent, said the only way to pressure the state to live within its means is to cut taxes - a move they said would also boost the economy and create jobs.

Critics, including all four candidates for governor, said the tax cut would have forced the state to slash $2.5 billion in services, including local aid to cities and towns, at a time when Massachusetts is still climbing out of a recession.

Opponents, including state and national teachers unions, poured more than $4 million into an advertising campaign against the question, overwhelming supporters.

Podcast

Toby McGrath of "Vote No on 3" spoke with WBZ's Deb Lawler


Podcast

Carla Howell of "Vote Yes on 3" chats with WBZ's Deb Lawler

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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