The Birmingham News editorial page hits the nail on the head:

In general terms, Riley’s package will make the state’s tax system more fair. It will raise more money for services. And it will cut out waste and inefficiency.

That’s the truth. Now he must convince a majority of lawmakers and the public.

I am already tired of the same old arguments that are surfacing. The Christian Coalition says “good stewardship” is the solution to all the state’s ills. I’m sure the Christian Coalition would be perfectly happy if the school systems go bankrupt, all social services are ended, we kick the mentally ill out on the street and release all our criminals early. I’m sure they’ll pick up the slack.

When a conservative Republican who has voted against every tax increase put in front of him is telling you we need to raise taxes. You might want to listen. It tells citizens a great deal that we are going to hear the same old tired arguments used to defeat previous Democratic tax increases to defeat a proposal from the Republicans. Those who oppose this package should be forced to propose a package of their own or get out of the debate. We need more revenue, if you have a better plan than that proposed by the Governor I would love to see it. Put it out there and let the people decide.