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Delta CEOs released a statement in opposition to Georgia’s newly signed voting legislation. In response, Georgia’s house passed to add a provision to HB 477. This addition begins the collection of fuel levies on July 1st. While the changes don’t specifically mention Delta’s statements, it seems quite clear after hearing Georgia house politicians speaking about the change publicly and the timing of the change. For example, state House Speaker David Ralston is quoted saying “You don’t feed a dog that bites your hand. You got to keep that in mind sometimes.”
I’ve seen criticisms of this change in the house revolve around two ideas. Either these tax cuts are solely for the benefit of the corporation’s CEOs or These tex cuts do benefit middle-class Americans and these Americans are being impacted by Government because of a CEO statement. It is possible that both ideas are somewhat true and both the CEOs and employees see a benefit.
I don’t wish to focus on the discussion of trickle-down economics or the possibility that these tax cuts only enrich the bank accounts of CEOs. My argument is a constitutional one. We all recognize that government can’t pass laws to limit speech. But what about government-backed actions that punish an individual or corporation for being vocal against governmental laws or actions?
