September 29, 2017
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Tax Reform
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Adams Statement Ahead of Republican Tax Plan Announcement
Alma Adams (D-NC, 12th)
“It’s long overdue that we have a tax code that is fair, balanced, and simple,” said Congresswoman Adams. “American families and small businesses need comprehensive tax reform that provides an opportunity to rebuild the middle class-not another tax cut for the wealthy. True reform will only be possible if both parties have a seat at the table and thus far, Democrats have been shut out of the discussion. I urge my Republican colleagues to begin a bipartisan debate to reform our antiquated tax code today.”
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Allen: Unified Tax Reform Framework will Protect the American Dream
Rick Allen (R-GA, 12th)
“It has been over 30 years since our broken tax code was last reformed, but today, President Trump and the Republican Congress laid out a tax framework that will provide relief for hard-working Americans and jumpstart our economy. Bold reforms will increase paychecks, grow local businesses, and expand our economy in ways that we have not seen in a long time. Our plan will accomplish all of these goals, making the tax code affordable, simple, and competitive. It will allow middle class Americans to keep more of their hard-earned paychecks and level the playing field for American businesses and workers to bring jobs back home. The unified tax reform framework will protect the American dream for families and remove the tax burdens strangling our economy.”
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REP. BACON ISSUES STATEMENT FOLLOWING RELEASE OF TAX REFORM FRAMEWORK
Don Bacon (R-NE, 2nd)
"It's been 31 years since we updated our tax code, and now is the time for tax reform. We propose tax reform that is fair, simple, and helps us compete and win in the global economy. This reform will unleash economic growth, increase employment and will put more money back in the pockets of American families. Each year, taxpayers spend a combined $99 billion and countless hours to file their taxes and they want simplicity. Our businesses currently pay among the highest taxes in the world and it is time we put our businesses on a level playing field, so that our work ethic and innovative spirit wins. Lowering rates while removing loopholes will create fairness amongst businesses.
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BANKS PRAISES GOP TAX REFORM PLAN
Jim Banks (R-IN, 3rd)
“The last time tax reform was passed, I was seven years old and Ronald Reagan was president. Today’s framework is a good first step towards closing loopholes and putting more money in the pockets of Hoosier families. It has been over a decade since our country’s economy has grown by 3%, and this sort of growth is critical to lowering the national debt and balancing the budget. I look forward to working with President Trump and my colleagues in Congress on this important issue.”
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Congressman Bergman’s Statement on Today’s Rollout of the Tax Reform Structure
Jack Bergman (R-MI, 1st)
It’s been over 30 years since our tax code has undergone comprehensive reform. We, the people, are overdue for tax relief. The framework laid out today by the Republican Congress and President Trump is a great first step towards achieving relevant tax reform. This proposal gives working individuals and families in Michigan’s First District a simpler tax code that allows them to keep more of their hard-earned paycheck, and provides small businesses the opportunity to create more jobs and grow a stronger economy.
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Cole Statement on Republican Tax Reform Framework
Tom Cole (R-OK, 4th)
“I was very encouraged by the framework for tax reform that was laid out this morning,” said Cole. “While many details remain to be determined by the legislative process, it offers a positive path forward.”
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Collins Supports Comprehensive Tax Reform Framework
Chris Collins (R-NY, 27th)
“Updating our nation’s tax code will be one of the most important accomplishments we will see under President Trump. The House Republican framework is what will truly make America Great Again by making our country more competitive around the world and allowing families to keep more of what they earn. Lower corporate tax rates and repatriation of dollars that are overseas will directly stimulate investment and job growth in Western New York and around our country. It’s time for Congress to follow President Trump’s lead and fix the broken, outdated tax system that has burdened hard-working individuals and has crushed our economy.”
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Rep. Comstock On Tax Reform Framework
Barbara Comstock (R-VA, 10th)
"...I am also pleased to see an expanded child tax credit included in the framework since it has been over a decade since the child tax credit was last expanded. I have introduced H.R. 383, the Expanded Child Tax Credit Act which would double the current tax credit from $1,000 to $2,000 per child so that families will have more money in their pockets. I have also cosponsored H.R. 3632, the Promoting Affordable Childcare for Everyone (PACE) Act which will help middle class and low-income families with tax credits for childcare, and I hope to see this included in the final package given the high cost of childcare for two earner families"
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Tax Reform's Focus Should be Middle Class Families, Individuals
Rick Crawford (R-AR, 1st)
“The 1st District of Arkansas will be looking for a fiscally responsible tax reform plan that significantly lowers taxes for working middle income Americans and their families. I support the President’s goal of making our tax code more competitive to increase economic growth and drive up wages for American workers. Ultimately, our current tax code benefits some at the expense of the many, and Americans should be able to keep more of their paychecks to spend, save, or invest as they so choose.”
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Davidson’s Statement on Tax Reform Framework
Warren Davidson (R-OH, 8th)
“Hardworking Ohio families deserve a simple tax system and more take home pay. In the coming weeks, I’ll be working with my colleagues in Congress to make sure the bold, pro-growth and pro-family reforms that this framework proposes are put in place and that a final bill arrives on President Trump’s desk as soon as possible.”
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Awards
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Amash earns award for taxpayer-friendly voting record
Justin Amash (R-MI, 3rd)
Rep. Justin Amash (R-Mich.) this week received the “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” from the National Taxpayers Union in recognition of the “A” grade he earned for his 2016 voting record. His score of 93 percent on the organization’s 2016 scorecard earned him the highest rating in the House of Representatives.
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News Concerning the Hurricanes
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Babin Supports Bill to Deliver Immediate Tax Relief to Hurricane Victims
Brian Babin (R-TX, 36th)
“In my congressional district, countless individuals and families lost nearly everything to Harvey’s floodwaters,” said Rep. Babin. “The stories are heartbreaking. This bipartisan legislation gives them further assistance to rebuild their lives through immediate tax relief while sending another important message that we stand together with our fellow Americans through this extremely difficult time.”
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Rep. Ami Bera Denounces Trump Administration’s Response in Puerto Rico and Urges Immediate Action
Amy Berra (D-CA, 7th)
Rep. Ami Bera, M.D. released the following statement after news broke that the Trump administration will not waive shipping restrictions that are delaying Puerto Rico relief:
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BIPARTISAN GROUP OF 65 MEMBERS OF CONGRESS CALL ON TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO LET CUBA BUY U.S.-MADE RECONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS AFTER HURRICANE IRMA
John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI, 13th)
“[T]here is a simple change you can make that would provide necessary support to the Cuban people while at the same time helping U.S. businesses: remove restrictions on the ability of U.S. companies to export needed relief and reconstruction supplies to the Cuban government and its people.”
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Hmmm. That's a tough one. Trump could say yes and stand to make money to help our budget off helping Cuba, or he could say no and risk the damning from the main stream media, once again. Not that anyone cares about what CNN thinks, but the money sure looks good right now. The question is, can Cuba afford our help?
This opens up a whole new point of view. All these countries that are offering us help, what do they want from us in return? Are we accepting it? If so, from who? Why isn't the media covering this?
Hurricane Relief and FAA Authorization Pass House
Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota)
“After Democrats voted against this bill earlier this week using DACA as a reason to obstruct this otherwise bipartisan bill, I am pleased House Republicans rose above the partisan politics being played. While consistent long-term funding is always the goal, this bill ensures the vital functions of the FAA continue to run smoothly while the House and Senate continue to work on a longer-term solution.”
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Budget
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REINVENTING WASHINGTON'S BROKEN BUDGET PROCESS
Doug Collins (R-GA, 9th)
The American people are fed up with Washington — and rightfully so. Both parties are responsible for this pathetic budgeting record and for its byproduct: a staggering $20 trillion debt. It's time to forge a new path.
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Law-breakers
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Warrants, Whether Convicted or Not, Keep People from Getting Federal Benefits
Paul Cook (R-CA, 8th)
The CUFF Act amends the law to prohibit individuals who have an outstanding arrest warrant for a felony or parole violation from receiving certain monthly welfare benefits. The law would apply only to felony charges or a crime carrying a minimum term of one or more years in prison. The policy would not punish those convicted of misdemeanors, such as outstanding parking tickets.
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Iran
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Bipartisan pair wants commission to oversee Iran deal
Gerald E. “Gerry” Connolly (D-VA, 11th)
Congress has a role to play in effective oversight of this agreement, and we must assert that role regardless of whether the president certifies Iran’s compliance. This commission ensures that the effort to constrain the Iranian nuclear program receives the attention it deserves.”
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Other
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Cohen’s Statement on the Announced Retirement of Tennessee Senator Bob Corker
Steve Cohen (D-TN, 9th)
“I was disappointed to learn that Senator Bob Corker will not be seeking re-election in 2018. Senator Corker has been easy to work with, and we have developed an excellent relationship since beginning our careers in Congress in 2006. Bob is highly respected for his knowledge of the issues, especially foreign policy. He has exhibited moments of independence reminiscent of past great Tennessee Senators. I have enjoyed his friendship and collegiality since serving together in Tennessee State government, and I will miss serving with him in Congress.”
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Cooper Statement on Announced Retirement of Sen. Bob Corker
Jim Cooper (D-TN, 5th)
“I congratulate Sen. Corker for two terms in the Senate. Despite our differences, we have a solid working relationship and I admire his expertise on foreign affairs,” Rep. Cooper said. “I wish him the best in his future endeavors, and I thank him for his service to Tennessee.”
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