George Runner

George Runner, a member of the California State Board of Equalization, will speak to the Santa Clarita Valley Congress of Republicans on  Thursday.

“I am going to be speaking on tax policies in the state of California and business policies that affect the Santa Clarita Valley enterprise zone,” Runner said.

In April, Runner posted a piece to his website titled “California Can’t Tax Itself to Prosperity.” Runner states that he opposes further tax increases on businesses in the state.

Runner uses an oil severance tax that recently went through the legislature in his example. A severance tax is one that is imposed by the state on the extraction of nonrenewable resources.

The tax bill did not pass, but appears at the Capitol nearly every year. Runner believes in more oil production within the state. This he says will create jobs, lower gas prices, and create economic prosperity.

“Current tax policies in the regulatory environment will not help California move out of its budget crisis,” Runner said.

Runner was elected to the five-member Board in 2010. The Board administers more than 30 taxes. During his time on the Board, Runner has worked to improve California’s tax policies and practices and to create and retain more private sector jobs in the state, Runner said.

Runner led an effort to reform a tax collection program known as the Qualified Purchasers Program. Runner was also a leading voice against the Amazon Tax and a critic of the California Fire Prevention Fee.

Prior to serving on the Board, Runner served twelve years in the State Legislature. As a member of the Senate Revenue and Taxation Committee, Runner consistently led the fight against tax increases and supported tax relief for families and businesses, according to a statement from his office.

Runner’s priorities include improving the economy, business growth, education excellence, and public safety for all Californians.

Runner will speak at Magaritas Mexican Grill in Valencia at 6 p.m. on June 6.

Magaritas is located at 23320 Valencia Blvd.

– David Mariuz