Insights from the Cowboy Family Report with Ashley Harpstreith - Episode 063

In this episode, we discuss Wyoming's tax situation with Ashley Harpstreith from the Wyoming Taxpayers Association. Ashley gives us a close look at their new Cowboy Family report, which examines the balance between Wyoming's taxes and the services it provides to its people. 

In the interview, Ashley shares her background and how she got involved with the Wyoming Taxpayers Association. She explains that their mission since 1937 has been to advocate for sound tax policies for a healthy Wyoming economy. Despite misconceptions, they are neither anti-tax nor pro-tax. Their diverse membership ranges from large companies to family businesses and individual citizens. 

The Cowboy Family report comprehensively examines the average state taxes paid by Wyoming citizens and the services they receive in return. It goes beyond focusing on taxes and provides transparency on the services funded by these taxes. 

Ashley explains the methodology used in the report, which includes data from various sources like the US Census Bureau, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the Tax Foundation. The report also features an interactive dashboard that allows users to input their own variables and see approximately how much they pay in taxes versus the value of services they receive. 

Ashley compares Wyoming to other states and points out that the state's tax situation is quite favorable, especially considering the lack of a state income tax and the reliance on the severance tax from mineral resources. The report aims to provide transparent information without taking an advocacy stance, helping people understand the balance between taxes and services. 

For those interested in learning more, the Cowboy Family report and the interactive dashboard can be found on the Wyoming Taxpayers Association website at wyotax.org. Ashley also mentions other valuable publications on the site that provide detailed information about Wyoming's tax structure. 

Don't miss this informative discussion about Wyoming's tax policies. 

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