Think that tax cuts will save you money? Think again. Tax cuts result in state budget cuts, which will actually result in higher costs for you. How does this work? Let's start by looking at public higher education in Massachusetts.

Since 2001, state aid to institutions of higher education has been cut by 32%. During that same time period, fees at the state universities have more than tripled (fees represent the largest portion of costs). In other words, budget cuts - caused by enormous tax cuts made since 2000 - have meant that middle class families sending their children to public colleges and universities are now paying triple the cost (see this Boston Globe article for details).

This dynamic does not just apply to higher education. For example, the state's underfunding of the T has resulted in an average 23% increase in fares for riders (the disabled will pay an even higher increase). Cuts to local aid in the City of Springfield, to look at just one local community, will result in the elimination of trash pick up for large apartment buildings and commercial properties. The owners of those buildings will have to pick up those costs, resulting in higher rents for tenants and higher prices for the customers of those businesses.

In other words, relentless budget cuts don't lead to lower costs and a healthier economy. They force us all to pay more for the services we depend on and they result in a weaker economy. We cannot cut our way to greatness. Instead, we must substantially increase state revenue and invest in our communities.