Live Blogging the Tax Summit- Introduction

The House Ways and Means Committee is holding a two-day Revenue Structure Information Session at the Legislative Office Building in Concord, Rooms 202-204. House Ways and Means Chair Susan Almy has invited approxiately two dozen witnesses to testify about the state's tax structure, and the impact of various tax changes.

The first panel features a trio of national think tanks.

Jonathan Williams- American Legislative Exchange Council, Washington, DC- ALEC is a group dedicated to helping state lawmakers from around the country support free market principles.

Scott Hodge- The Tax Foundation, Washington, DC- The Tax Foundation is an educational and advocacy group designed to educate taxpayers about tax policy and the tax burden of public policy.

Jeff McLynch- Institute for Taxation & Economic Policy, Washington, DC- ITEP is a national advocacy group focusing on taxes and spending. The group testified earlier this year in favor of an income tax for New Hampshire. The inclusion of the liberal think tank has drawn criticism from New Hampshire conservative groups who questioned why Almy, a long-time income tax supporter, would invite a group that has already publicly endorsed an income tax.

Critics have also questioned ITEP's funding, as it has gotten significant support from many of the same liberal organizations that have funded ACORN's controversial activities. ITEP has no formal relationship with ACORN.