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Optimality of relaxing revenue-neutral restrictions in green tax reforms

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  • Eduardo L. Giménez
  • Miguel Rodríguez

Abstract

Green Tax Reforms [GTR] have been initially devised as a policy proposal to tackle simultaneously several political goals, such as accomplishing environmental objectives together with lesser tax distortions requiring tax revenue recycling. Yet, recent fiscal stress episodes in many developed countries have defied this view. In this paper, we assess the convenience of revenue-neutral restrictions in GTR on efficiency basis. Usual revenue-neutral conditions impose on policymakers additional constraints that may restrain welfare gains. Our conclusions may provide theoretical support for the third generation of GTR (calling for a departure from revenue-neutral conditions on GTR), as well as some recent legal European experiences.

Suggested Citation

  • Eduardo L. Giménez & Miguel Rodríguez, 2016. "Optimality of relaxing revenue-neutral restrictions in green tax reforms," Working Papers. Collection A: Public economics, governance and decentralization 1605, Universidade de Vigo, GEN - Governance and Economics research Network.
    • Handle: RePEc:gov:wpaper:1605
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Rodríguez, Miguel & Pena-Boquete, Yolanda & Pardo-Fernández, Juan Carlos, 2016. "Revisiting Environmental Kuznets Curves through the energy price lens," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 95(C), pages 32-41.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    green tax reforms; revenue neutrality; optimal taxation;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • H23 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - Externalities; Redistributive Effects; Environmental Taxes and Subsidies
    • Q48 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Energy - - - Government Policy

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