The 2020 bill of the canton of Bern triggered mixed reactions from the parties. The black zero is welcomed. The FDP and SVP are calling for an effort to invest, while the Greens and EPP are questioning the tax strategy.
The FDP points out that the bill would have been “very positive” without the Covid crisis. That reflects the still record high tax burden in the canton of Bern. Like other cantons, Bern benefited greatly from the National Bank’s funds, but again less was invested than planned.
That is regrettable, writes the FDP. On the one hand, the government feared an investment overhang in the future. On the other hand, they do not manage to stabilize investments at a higher level.
The SVP points out that the effects of the Covid crisis on the revenue side will only be visible from this year onwards. Against this background, it is imperative to rethink the lockdown strategy.
In order to strengthen the economy, the canton also needs a strategy that relies on the rapid implementation of ready-to-implement projects. In particular, projects such as the Aarwangen bypass can be implemented quickly.
The Greens and EPP are questioning the tax cuts that have been decided. It is highly questionable for the EPP to stick to a strategy that was decided under completely different conditions before the pandemic.
For the Greens, it is frightening that there was a slump in tax revenue of 154 million francs – and that for the 2019 tax year, i.e. before the pandemic.
The linear tax cuts granted in 2021 are irresponsible and urgently need to be corrected in the next budget. The Greens are demanding a moratorium on tax cuts and an incentive program to strengthen economic and social resilience.
Mixed feelings among the staff
The surplus of 40 million francs is also gratifying from the point of view of the Bernese State Personnel Association (BSPV). The staff made their contribution to the good result with a reduction in expenditure of 25 million francs compared to the budget.
With these annual accounts, the originally budgeted wage bill growth of 0.7 percent would have been possible for staff for 2021, writes the BSPV. The Grand Council decided in favor of 0.3 percent, which enabled savings of nine million francs.
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