Elections, Oil, Nurses, COVID-19, Testing, Religion, Prisons, Unemployment, Taxes, Trump Administration, Cuba, PPE

DFA praises Sanders “transformational” campaign, is “100% committed” to ensuring Biden beats Trump
Source: Democracy for America
April 8, 2020
Sen. Bernie Sanders just announced the suspension of his 2020 campaign for President. Democracy for America endorsed Sanders in 2016 and fought along his side from early in the campaign all the way to the convention. The grassroots progressive group endorsed Sanders again prior to the Super Tuesday contests following a vote of DFA members.
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HEAT Members Urge Saudi Crown Prince to Restore Global Oil Market Stability
Source: U.S. Representative Jeff Duncan (R-SC, 3rd)
April 8, 2020
“The United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have an important strategic partnership that ensures regional stability, counters Iran’s malign activity, and defeats terrorists that threaten our security,” the letter reads. “The United States also remains committed to maintaining the strong economic ties between our two countries. We are concerned, however, with the Kingdom’s actions to artificially distort global crude oil markets as countries around the world struggle to address a growing economic and health crisis fueled by the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic.”
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Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s Loyalty Program, to Offer ENA Members Free Hotel Rooms
Source: Emergency Nurses Association
April 8, 2020
The initiative, which also includes members of the American College of Emergency Physicians, offers free hotel room nights to nurses and physicians in several targets cities currently in the greatest need, including New York City, Newark, Washington, D.C., Chicago, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Detroit and New Orleans. ENA and ACEP will oversee the matching of their respective members in those cities with accommodations at participating hotels.
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We Need True Positives, True Negatives: Doggett and DeLauro Press FDA for Data on the Accuracy of COVID-19 Tests
Source: U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX, 35th)
April 9, 2020
U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Health Subcommittee, and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Subcommittee, pressed the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for information regarding the precautions they have taken to assure the accuracy of COVID-19 tests, as well as for manufacturers’ data provided to the FDA on false positives and false negatives in administered tests thus far.
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Davids Statement on Kansas’ Reversal of Order Limiting Mass Religious Gatherings During Coronavirus
Source: U.S Representative Sharice Davids (D-KS, 3rd)
April 9, 2020
“The decision to overturn Governor Kelly’s executive order is not only outrageous and irresponsible – it’s putting lives at risk. Rather than work to ensure the health and safety of Kansans, extremists in the state legislature have created chaos and confusion and endangered our public health.
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DPA Leads Vast Coalition of Public Health Orgs & Professionals Calling on the CDC to Adopt Decarceration & Expanded Health Care Access in Guidance to Slow Spread of COVID-19
Source: Drug Policy Alliance
April 9, 2020
The letter follows troubling reports of rapidly escalating outbreaks within the country’s jails, prisons and youth and immigration detention centers. These institutions have failed to maintain control of the spread of COVID-19, reduce capacity to allow for social distancing, offer necessary hygienic supplies or personal protective equipment to ward off infection, and ultimately provide adequate access to healthcare for those who need it; the results of which have proved fatal.
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Ernst Statement on Senate Democrats Blocking Funding for Small Businesses
Source: Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
April 9, 2020
“After hearing from Iowans and seeing the overwhelming response of small businesses across the country, it’s clear we need to bolster the Paycheck Protection Program. We don’t have time for political games; we’re in a crisis. Workers and employers in Iowa and across the country need this relief now more than ever, so let’s put aside the politics and swiftly get this specific additional support for small businesses approved so money can keep flowing, Iowa workers can continue to collect a paycheck, and our state’s small businesses can stay afloat,” said Senator Ernst.
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ENA Foundation Announces COVID-19 Relief Fund
Source: Emergency Nurses Association
April 9, 2020
ENA members who need financial assistance due to personal hardship experienced as a direct result of COVID-19 may apply for a one-time individual relief grant of $599 to assist themselves and their family during this difficult time. Priority consideration will be provided to nurses serving in targeted hot spot areas.
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16.8 million apply for unemployment benefits in three weeks
Source: Economic Policy Institute
April 9, 2020
Between March 15 and April 4, 16.8 million workers applied for unemployment insurance (UI), according to new Department of Labor (DOL) data. That means that in the last three weeks alone, more than one in 10 workers have applied for UI benefits. The labor market has been upended.
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DelBene Secures Tax Extension for Non-profit Hospitals, Universities, Other Tax-exempt Organizations
Source: U.S. Representative Suzan Delbene (D-WA, 1st)
April 10, 2020
“The IRS made the right decision to extend the tax filing and payment deadline for tax-exempt organizations,” said DelBene. “Just like individuals and businesses, COVID-19 continues to create significant financial disruption for tax-exempt organizations, such as non-profit hospitals, and universities. Many of these organizations are on the front lines of responding to this pandemic in Washington state and around the country. They deserve relief and now will receive it.”
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Delgado Statement on Removal of CARES Act Oversight Committee Head
Source: U.S. Representative Antonio Delgado (D-NY, 19th)
April 8, 2020
“Two weeks ago, a broad, bipartisan coalition voted to pass the vitally important emergency relief legislation with the inclusion of critical oversight measures to ensure the faithful stewardship of federal dollars. Removing a key government watchdog from overseeing the largest stimulus package in our nation’s history is deeply concerning and runs counter to a unified message of placing emergency relief above partisan politics. Americans need relief now, not divisive partisanship.”
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What COVID-19 Means for End-of-Life Care: Experts Answer Your Questions
Source: Death with Dignity
April 10, 2020
Over the past several weeks, we have been receiving a growing number of inquiries about end-of-life care, advance directives, and other critical issues. With the help of experts, we have taken some time to answer those questions and compiled some resources. Experts come from a number of fields:
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DEFAZIO PUSHES TO PROTECT INTEGRITY OF INSPECTORS GENERAL FROM TRUMP POLITICAL RETALIATION
Source: U.S. Representative Peter DeFazio (D-OR, 4th)
April 10, 2020
In the letter to Michael Horowitz, the CIGIE Chair, the lawmakers write, “Unlike any President in modern history, President Trump has engaged in offensive and unjustified attacks against Inspectors General, criticizing them for following the law, and retaliating against them for telling the truth…[The president’s actions] reflect a campaign of political retaliation and reward that is antithetical to good government, undermines the proper stewardship of taxpayer dollars, and degrades the federal government’s ability to function competently.”
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DEFAZIO ANNOUNCES NEW TOOL TO HELP NON-FILERS ACCESS COVID-19 ECONOMIC IMPACT PAYMENTS
Source: U.S. Representative Peter DeFazio (D-OR, 4th)
April 10, 2020
After the 2008 financial crisis, 3.5 million of our nation’s most vulnerable did not receive a stimulus check because of bureaucratic red tape,” said Rep. DeFazio. “We cannot allow the same thing to happen now, which is why I called for a method to help those who need it most access economic impact payments. This new tool will give those who do not usually file, including those with too little income, a simple, free and secure way to provide the IRS with basic information so they can receive their Economic Impact Payments as soon as possible. While I will continue to push Treasury and IRS to automatically provide payments to people who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and to individuals who receive Veterans Affairs (VA) compensation and pensions, this is an important first step towards helping vulnerable populations weather these uncertain times.
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As Lawmakers Fall Ill, Congress and State Legislatures Must Enact Continuity Plans
Source: Demand Progress
April 10, 2020
Demand Progress calls on Congress and state legislatures to institute continuity of governance plans immediately, before the COVID-19 crisis worsens and the legislatures become unable to act. Many members of Congress have been exposed to the virus, it was announced that two New York state lawmakers had contracted the virus, and it’s likely many others have contacted it as well. Overseas, the European Union Parliament in Strasbourg was closed and reconvened in Brussels, and about 10 percent of Iranian parliamentarians have tested positive, while two have died.
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Democracy for America backs Jeff Merkley for reelection to the U.S. Senate
Source: Democracy for America
April 10, 2020
DFA was a strong supporter of Sen. Merkley in his first reelection bid in 2014 and, over the last six years, has worked closely with him on everything from progressive fights for filibuster reform and Medicare for All to battles against war with Iran and Donald Trump’s right-wing Supreme Court nominees.
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Chairman Deutch Calls for Stronger US Response to Idlib Humanitarian Catastrophe
Source: U.S. Representative Ted Deutch (D-FL, 21st)
April 10, 2020
In the letter to Secretary of State Michael Pompeo, the Members acknowledge the humanitarian impact of escalating violence in Idlib on its roughly three million residents, most of whom are children. In addition to the conflict's devastating effect on civilians, the Members fear that Syria's limited health care facilities and professionals, already operating under dire conditions, may be ill-prepared for any spread of COVID-19.
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Representatives Diaz-Balart, Rooney, Mucarsel-Powell Condemn Cuba’s Actions During COVID-19 Pandemic
Source: U.S. Representative Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL, 25th)
April 10, 2020
The Cuban regime has shamelessly exploited this COVID-19 pandemic to engage in a misleading medical diplomacy campaign by trafficking doctors from whom they pocket as much as 80 percent of their salaries, confiscate their passports, and impose strict monitoring. The regime is also spreading dangerous disinformation about the virus worldwide with the aim of dividing the international community. These are just the latest examples of the regime’s use of propaganda to build a positive image abroad and distract from its systemic human rights violations against the Cuban people. Like their authoritarian partners around the world, the Cuban regime cannot be counted on as a reliable partner in fighting the coronavirus pandemic.
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Feinstein Calls for Additional Essential Workers Such as Grocery Clerks, Agricultural Workers to Receive Protective Equipment
Source: Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA)
April 10, 2020
“I write in support of your leadership in procuring 200 million masks a month, so that essential workers on the frontlines across California are protected during the coronavirus pandemic,” wrote Senator Feinstein.
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Impeachment, FEMA, Iran, Cybersecurity, Social Security, Drugs, PFAS Action Act, Taxes, Boeing, Immigration

Impeachment

Rep. Billy Long Votes 'No' on Resolution Appointing and Authorizing Impeachment Trial Managers
Source: Billy Long (R-MI, 7th)
January 15, 2020
“After 28 days, the House finally voted on a resolution appointing and authorizing managers for the impeachment trial of President Trump. I voted against this resolution because I believe that the managers named by Speaker Pelosi have repeatedly demonstrated their hatred for President Trump and are therefore unable to be objective. In the months leading up to impeachment and all throughout the hearings, Speaker Pelosi and her cohorts insisted that this was an ‘urgent’ matter, yet these articles have collected dust on her desk for nearly a month. In an effort to justify her actions, the speaker has claimed that she wanted to ensure that the trial was ‘fair’ which is incredibly ironic given the highly-partisan witch hunt House Democrats led. For the past few months, House Democrats have attempted to remove a duly-elected president from office by any means necessary, and the American people are understandably sick of it. It is time for the American people to hear all of the evidence House Democrats previously withheld, and I am confident that Leader McConnell will give them that opportunity by conducting a fair and transparent trial.”

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FEMA

LaMalfa Statement on FEMA Seeking Reimbursement from Wildfire Victim Compensation Fund
Source: Doug LaMalfa (R-CA, 1st)
January 14, 2020
I recently sent a bipartisan letter asking FEMA to stand down on seeking a reimbursement from PG&E’s settlement fund for the wildfire victims. While FEMA is in the wrong, this letter did not mention that the State of California is seeking reimbursement from the PG&E compensation fund at the price tag of $3.3 billion. When preparing to respond to the needs of the victims, the state received $2.5 billion of the $3.3 billion from the federal government. The State of California is purposefully slighting its citizens by trying to earmark money from the victims’ compensation fund for themselves.”

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IRAN

Larsen Votes to Hold President Accountable to the American People, Limit Use of Military Force Against Iran
Source: Rick Larsen (D-WA, 2nd)
January 10, 2020
For all the President’s talk about getting out of the Middle East, his actions continue to foreshadow even more involvement in the region, including the recent airstrike and the deployment of 4,500 additional U.S. personnel. The U.S. must work with allies and partners to de-escalate tensions and focus on ensuring the lasting defeat of ISIS.

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LAMB STATEMENT AFTER SECURITY BRIEFING ON IRAN
Source: Connor Lamb (D-PA, 17th)
January 9, 2020
“It is one of the highest forms of patriotism to speak out when a government engages in reckless military action that can lead us to war” said Lieu. “I previously served active duty in the United States military. The goal of any military action should be to make us more safe, not less safe. Unfortunately, as a result of Donald Trump's impulsive decision making, the following negative consequences have happened: Iran is no longer abiding by any limits on its nuclear program; the Iranian people who previously were protesting their own leadership have now rallied behind their government; and the Iraqi parliament voted to kick U.S. troops out of their country. We don't need the President make any more reckless decisions. We don't need him to tweet out flag pictures. We need the President to articulate a coherent Iran strategy, which he still hasn’t offered.”

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REP LIEU STATEMENT ON HOUSE EFFORT TO PREVENT UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN
Source: Ted Lieu (D-CA, 33rd)
January 8, 2020
“The administration still will not explain why Soleimani suddenly was an ‘imminent’ threat after multiple U.S. and Israeli administrations declined to kill him. Nonetheless, we know the following has resulted from the administration’s policy in the Middle East. We now have 15,000 more American troops there than we did six months ago. Our mission to defeat ISIS has been slowed down by the need to defend from additional Iranian attacks. Iran is now closer to developing a nuclear weapon.

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Cybersecurity

Langevin Statement on Microsoft Windows Cybersecurity Vulnerability Identified by NSA
Source: Jim Langevin (D-RI, 2nd)
January 15, 2020
Today’s disclosure of a critical Windows vulnerability shows that the vulnerabilities equities process is working. When government researchers discover a vulnerability in a widely used commercial product, the bias must be towards disclosure. This is a feather in the cap of the NSA’s new Cybersecurity Directorate, which is committed to helping partners, whether government customers or private sector critical infrastructure owners and operators, defend against malicious activity. I strongly support the United States government’s continued leadership on coordinated vulnerability disclosure, leadership enhanced by the recent binding operational directive directing government agencies to have their own vulnerability disclosure policies. I look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress and on the Solarium Commission to strengthen operational relationships between the private sector and government, particularly through the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the Cybersecurity Directorate.

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Social Security

Larson, Neal, and Davis Slam Harmful Draft Social Security Rule
Source: John B. Larson (D-CT, 1st)
January 13, 2020
“Yet again, the Trump Administration is going out of its way to make life more challenging for the most vulnerable people in our country. The United States government already has extremely stringent disability standards. In fact, fewer than four in 10 applicants are found eligible for Social Security disability benefits, even after all levels of appeal. This rule would further restrict eligibility, making it even harder for disabled people to access the essential income they’re qualified to receive. We are particularly alarmed that news of this latest proposal comes on top of the Administration’s recent efforts to cut off benefits for severely disabled people whom the agency already found eligible.

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Drugs

Latta Focuses on State Efforts to Combat Substance Abuse & the Opioid Epidemic
Source: Robert E. Latta (R OH, 5th)
January 14, 2020
According to the Ohio Department of Health, in 2017, prescription opioid overdose deaths fell in Ohio by almost 28% since 2011, but overdose rates are still high. Prescription opioid-related overdose deaths accounted for 523 of Ohio’s total 4,854 unintentional overdose deaths in 2017, compared to 564 of 4,050 total deaths in 2016 – which was the highest in the nation at the time. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Ohio had the second highest rate of drug related overdose deaths involving opioids in the country in 2017.

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PFAS Action Act

U.S. Representative Brenda Lawrence’s Amendment to Address PFAS Contamination Passes House Floor
Source: Brenda Lawrence (D-MI, 14th)
January 10, 2020
Exposure to PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals”, are linked to adverse health effects including cancer, immune system effects, infertility, impaired child development, high cholesterol and thyroid disease. PFAS contamination has been found across the country in almost every single congressional district posing a serious threat to public health including on our military bases risking the well-being of our troops and their families.

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H.R. 535, the PFAS Action Act would:

Require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to create a drinking water standard for PFOA and PFOS within two years;

Designates PFAS as a hazardous substance under the Superfund Law;

Creates a newly funded grant program to assist states with remediation efforts;

Prevents future contamination through strengthened testing, reporting, and monitoring requirements that hold contaminating companies accountable.

PFAS Bill Passes House with Provisions Written by Rep. Andy Levin
Source: Andy Levin (D-MI, 9th)
January 10, 2020
“Properly addressing PFAS contamination will require a monumental effort with coordination at the federal, state and local levels,” Rep. Levin said. “Today, the House took a major, bipartisan step toward committing the tools of the federal government to cleaning up these toxic chemicals nationwide. I was proud that today’s bill includes my PFAS Safe Disposal Act, which would ensure that when PFAS is eliminated by incineration, that the chemicals don’t end up in the air we breathe. I also authored an amendment to create accountability in the PFAS cleanup and disposal process.

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Taxes

LEWIS, NEAL CALL ON IRS TO ISSUE REFUND GUIDANCE TO TAX-EXEMPT ORGANIZATIONS PENALIZED BY HARMFUL GOP TAX LAW
Source: John Lewis (D-GA, 5th)
January 8, 2020
“Charities and houses of worship wasted precious time, money, and energy contending with a damaging tax that the 2017 Republican law imposed on them. It is unconscionable that the GOP gave big corporations and the wealthiest Americans more than $2 trillion of tax cuts, but forced soup kitchens to pay taxes on their employees’ parking benefits. That policy undermined any semblance of a fair or just tax code. Congress did our part to right this wrong – now it is time for the IRS to provide tax-exempt organizations with the guidance they need to claim and receive the refunds they are due.”

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Boeing

Lipinski Statement on Newly Released Boeing Emails
Source: Daniel Lipinski (D-IL, 3rd)
January 10, 2020
The Committee has made repeated requests since the Ethiopian Air Crash in March 2019 that Boeing turn over all relevant internal documents related to the MAX. It is absolutely outrageous that the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee just received these documents now. Boeing’s concealment of these documents flies in the face of the company’s stated commitment to the public and to victims’ families that they would cooperate with these important investigations and help get to the bottom of what happened. Boeing should be ashamed.

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Immigration

House Judiciary Will Investigate Trump Administration's "Remain in Mexico" Policy
Source: Zoe Lofgren (D-CA, 19th)
January 14, 2020
In their letter, the Members wrote, "The policy has nearly eliminated the already scarce due process protections available to asylum-seekers—such as access to counsel—further reducing the likelihood that legitimate asylum-seekers can obtain asylum. Moreover, MPP forces women, children, and families to remain in areas that the federal government recognizes as especially unsafe. As of today, there are 31 active travel advisories for Mexico, including 5 warnings in which the State Department explicitly advises Americans against travel. It is difficult to understand why this administration is sending children and families to areas where they will face certain harm."

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Taxes

Today's News about Tax Issues

Tax Hikes are the Wrong Way to Fund Roads and Bridges
Source: Americans for Prosperity
May 1, 2019
“If Congress wants to find money to modernize our roads and bridges, we encourage them to look to their own pockets – Americans have been filling them up for years. Instead of proposing a $2 trillion catch-all ‘infrastructure’ bill and asking hard-working Americans to fund it by paying more at the pump, Washington lawmakers should cut the red tape and stop wasting the tax dollars we give them.”

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Food Retailers Advocate on Tax Reform and Payments with Lawmakers
Source: Food Marketing Institute
May 1, 2019
Grocers and food industry executives will advocate for bipartisan support on “Restoring Investment in Improvements Act” (H.R. 1869 and S. 803), the importance of tax rate reductions and making them permanent, as well as the need to make the payments marketplace more competitive and secure for consumers, merchants, issuing banks and the economy. Attendees will also hear remarks from Deputy Secretary of Treasury, Justin Muzinich, who advised the Secretary on the recent tax reform legislation.

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REPRESENTATIVE MALINOWSKI DEMANDS HOUSE LEADERSHIP PRIORITIZE RESTORING FULL SALT DEDUCTION
Source: Tom Malinowsky (D-NJ, 7th)
May 1, 2019
The letter, sent to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, outlines the burden the cap placed upon the American middle class. The 2017 GOP tax bill directly targeted states like New Jersey and led to the double-taxing of millions of Americans. According to the IRS there are 860,000 middle class households in New Jersey alone that are directly harmed.

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Bennet, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill Requiring President Trump to Publicly Release His Tax Returns

Washington, D.C. - January 8, 2019 - (The Ponder News) -- Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, a member of the Senate Committee on Finance, this week reintroduced a bill to require current presidents and future presidential nominees to release their tax returns to the public in an effort to increase transparency.

In the two years since Bennet first cosponsored this legislation, revelations about President Trump’s financial ties and his associates’ ties to Russia have surfaced, and it has been reported that Trump and his family spent decades committing tax fraud. President Trump has refused to follow the lead of presidential candidates from major political parties who have voluntarily released their tax returns, upsetting a bipartisan, pro-transparency tradition that has stood for 40 years since Watergate.

“At the foundation of our democracy is the ability of the American people to hold its government accountable,” Bennet said. “The public has a right to know about the financial connections and dealings that could influence President Trump’s domestic and foreign policy decisions.”

Section 6103 of the U.S. tax code grants the Chairman of the House Finance Committee and the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee authority to obtain the president’s tax returns from the Treasury Department. According to reports, House Democrats plan to use this authority to demand President Trump’s tax returns, but Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin has not said whether he would comply.

In addition to this effort, the Presidential Tax Transparency Act would require all sitting presidents to release their most recent three years of tax returns to the Office of Government Ethics (OGE). It also would require that, within 15 days of becoming the nominee at the party convention, presidential nominees must release their most recent three years of tax returns to the Federal Election Commission (FEC). Should the sitting president or future candidates refuse to comply, the Treasury Secretary would be required to provide the tax returns directly to the OGE or FEC respectively for public release.

A one-page summary of the legislative proposal is available here. The bill text is available here.

If you would like to tell Bennet what you think, his information is below:

Bennet, Michael F. - (D - CO) Class III
261 Russell Senate Office Building Washington DC 20510
(202) 224-5852
Contact

Digital Goods and Services Tax Fairness Act Introduced in The House

Washington, D.C. - October 15, 2018 - (The Ponder News) -- Congressmen Steve Cohen (D-TN, 9th) and Lamar Smith (R-TX, 21st) has introduced legislation to protect consumers from unfair taxes on digital goods and services like those purchased over the internet or on smartphones. The Digital Goods and Services Tax Fairness Act ensures that digital goods and services are not taxed at a higher rate than their tangible counterparts.

“Digital goods and services have become a driving force in our national economy,” said Congressman Cohen. “We should make sure consumers are treated fairly and not double-taxed.”

Congressman Smith said: “In our modern economy, more and more consumers are buying digital goods and services rather than tangible items. But as technology advances, it is important that tax policies do not unfairly penalize consumers who choose to download digital goods rather than purchase their tangible counterparts. This legislation promotes tax fairness and ensures that consumers are not discouraged from purchasing digital goods.”

This legislation would prevent the taxation of MP3 and software downloads, for example, at a higher rate than the tax on music and software CDs. The bill would prevent tax discrimination for consumers who chose to purchase a good or service in digital rather than tangible form.

A Senate version of the measure was introduced Thursday by Senators John Thune (R-S.D.) and Ron Widen (D-OR).

Ways and Means Republicans Take Action to Deliver Relief from Obamacare Taxes

By The Ways and Means Committee

Washington, D.C. - December 12, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- Members of the Ways and Means Committee have introduced several bills to deliver immediate, targeted relief from Obamacare taxes that will be in effect in 2018.

Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX, 8th) issued the following statement after the Members introduced their legislation:

“Obamacare’s failures are continuing to hurt families across the country – and allowing burdensome health care taxes to continue or go back into effect would make these problems even more severe. As we continue working toward a patient-centered health care system, Ways and Means Republicans are taking action to provide targeted relief from taxes that stand in the way of affordable health care, innovative treatments, access to medications, more jobs, and bigger paychecks for hardworking Americans.

“I appreciate my colleagues for their work on commonsense proposals that will reduce health care costs for families, provide flexibility for employers to offer the plans that are right for their employees, and help American businesses bring jobs back to the United States. I look forward to continuing this work and advancing legislation in the weeks ahead.”

The following bills were introduced:

H.R. 4617, introduced by Reps. Erik Paulsen (R-MN) and Jackie Walorski (R-IN), provides relief from the job and innovation-killing Medical Device Tax for 5 years.

H.R. 4618, introduced by Rep. Lynn Jenkins (R-KS), provides relief for two years from the tax on over-the-counter medications, expanding access and reducing health are costs by once again allowing for reimbursement under consumer-directed accounts.

H.R. 4620, introduced by Rep. Kristi Noem (R-SD), provides relief in 2018 from the Health Insurance Tax that drives up health care costs, if the insurer provides the plan holder with a premium rebate and delays the tax in 2019 for all insurers.

H.R. 4619, introduced by Rep. Carlos Curbelo (R-FL), provides needed relief from the Health Insurance Tax, for 2 years for health care plans regulated by Puerto Rico.

H.R. 4616, introduced by Reps. Devin Nunes (R-CA) and Mike Kelly (R-PA), delivers three years of retroactive relief and one year of prospective relief from the harmful employer mandate paired with a one-year delay of the Cadillac Tax.


See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site

House Tax Bill Preserves Key Priorities for Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Source: National Venture Capital Association

The National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) issued the following statement today after House Republicans unveiled their draft tax reform legislation.

“We view tax reform as a unique opportunity to encourage new company formation by modernizing the tax code to better reflect the realities of the entrepreneurial business model,” said Bobby Franklin, President and CEO of NVCA. “We are pleased the House Ways and Means Committee heard our message and is preserving several issues important to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, including Qualified Small Business Stock Rules and the R&D credit payroll offset. We are also pleased to see the inclusion of an NVCA-backed proposal to allow startup employees to defer taxes on their exercised stock options without a liquid market to sell them. As the process unfolds, we look forward to engaging with lawmakers on other ways tax reform can encourage new company formation, as well as reinforce for them the importance of long-term patient investment when considering changes to the taxation of carried interest capital gains.”

Venture capitalists are committed to funding America’s most innovative entrepreneurs, working closely with them to transform breakthrough ideas into emerging growth companies that drive U.S. job creation and economic growth. As the voice of the U.S. venture capital community, the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) empowers its members and the entrepreneurs they fund by advocating for policies that encourage innovation and reward long-term investment. As the venture community’s preeminent trade association, the NVCA serves as the definitive resource for venture capital data and unites its member firms through a full range of professional services.

Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE

AFSCME Pres. Lee Saunders on House Majority Tax Plan

Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees

Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- AFSCME Pres. Lee Saunders issued the following statement on the tax plan released today by House majority leaders that would dramatically benefit corporations and the wealthy at the expense of working people:

“This tax bill is another gift to the powerful corporate special interests who manipulate our politics and politicians.

“Working people, seniors, and children will pay for this bill’s tax giveaways to corporations and the super wealthy by way of partisan gamesmanship that will force cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and public education. But to add insult to injury, the bill will starve communities of state and local public services, stifle job growth, and cause many middle class families to actually be hit with a tax increase.

“Real tax reform would ask corporations and the wealthy to pay their fair share, not reward them with more giveaways they don’t need, at the expense of working families.”

Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE

Council statement on GOP tax reform bill

Source: American Benefits Council

Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- American Benefits Council President James A. Klein said the following upon Republican leaders’ release of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:

"Promoting savings, investment and economic growth is the goal of tax reform and retirement plans are how Americans save and invest. We are gratified today's proposal lets workers save for retirement in the way that best meets their financial security needs. We will work with Congress to ensure that retirement savings is protected as the tax reform process moves forward.”

The Council recently updated its 401(k) Fast Facts, a collection of statistics on the reach and importance of defined contribution retirement plans.

The American Benefits Council is the national trade association for companies concerned about federal legislation and regulations affecting all aspects of the employee benefits system. The Council’s members represent the entire spectrum of the private employee benefits community and either sponsor directly or administer retirement and health plans covering more than 100 million Americans.


Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE

Statement from the President on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

Source: The White House



Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- I applaud the House Ways and Means Committee for introducing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which is another important step toward providing massive tax relief for the American people. My tax reform priorities have been the same since day one: bringing tax cuts for hardworking, middle-income Americans; eliminating unfair loopholes and deductions; and slashing business taxes so employers can create jobs, raise wages, and dominate their competition around the world. The policies of my Administration have already helped to drive the stock market to all-time highs and the unemployment rate to a 16-year low. Economic confidence is skyrocketing and our GDP grew 3 percent yet again this quarter.

We are just getting started, and there is much work left to do. The special interests will distort the facts, the lobbyists will try to save their special deals, and some in the media will unfairly report on our efforts. But my Administration will work tirelessly to make good on our promise to the working people who built our Nation and deliver historic tax cuts and reforms -- the rocket fuel our economy needs to soar higher than ever before.

Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE

Chairman Brady Introduces the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

Source: House Ways and Means Committee




Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) introduced the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act – bold legislation to overhaul America’s tax code for the first time in 31 years. With this bill, a typical middle-income family of four, earning $59,000 (the median household income), will receive a $1,182 tax cut.

Upon introducing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act – co-sponsored by Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) and all Ways and Means Committee Republican Members – Chairman Brady said:

“Today marks the beginning of the end of our nation’s broken tax code. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will deliver real tax relief to Americans across the country – especially low- and middle-income Americans who have been struggling for far too long to earn a raise and get ahead.

“Our legislation is focused entirely on growing our economy, bringing jobs back to our local communities, increasing paychecks for our workers, and making sure Americans are able to keep more of the money they earn.

“For families, we’re lowering rates, eliminating costly deductions that drive up taxes, and significantly increasing the standard deduction to protect more of each paycheck from taxes. We’re boosting family-focused tax benefits like the Child Tax Credit to help families keep up with the rising costs of child care, higher education, and looking after their loved ones. And we’re eliminating taxes that punish hardworking families like the Alternative Minimum Tax.

“Our legislation also delivers unprecedented simplicity that will make it easier and more affordable for families across our country to file their taxes each April. For the first time in history 9 out of 10 of Americans will be able to file their taxes on a form as simple as a postcard.

“And we’re making America competitive again so our workers can compete – and win – anywhere in the world, especially here at home. By delivering tax relief to businesses of all sizes, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act makes it easier for entrepreneurs to achieve the American Dream – to start a business and create jobs in our local communities, and it entices employers to bring their headquarters and jobs back home.

“We made a promise to deliver tax reform that creates more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks. After years of work, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is our answer.

“The legislation is now available online so our workers, families, and job creators can see how tax reform will improve their lives. I’m confident in the weeks ahead we will move this important legislation forward and work with the Senate to send a unified bill to President Trump’s desk by the end of the year.”

Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE

AEM: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act a Big Step Forward

Source: Association of Equipment Manufacturers




Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Equipment manufacturing leaders issued statements on Thursday hailing the release of The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act by leaders in Congress.

Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) President Dennis Slater said:

The equipment manufacturing industry commends Speaker Ryan, Chairman Brady and all the members of the House Ways & Means Committee for taking an important step on the path toward achieving pro-growth, pro-manufacturing tax reform. The legislation introduced today serves as a good foundation for continued debate in Congress. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers and its more than 950 members support permanent tax reform that simplifies the code, lowers rates for all businesses, and ultimately creates good-paying manufacturing jobs in America.

Equipment manufacturers have tirelessly advocated for pro-growth tax reform that improves the business environment for manufacturers in the United States and makes us more competitive as a nation. True reform is going to require hard work. Our elected leaders, regardless of party, should take their cues from the 1.3 million men and women of our industry, and put in the hard work necessary to enact meaningful and permanent tax reform that will create jobs and grow our economy.

Incoming AEM Chair and Doosan-Bobcat NA President Rich Goldsbury said:

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act introduced today is an important first step toward meaningful reform of our outdated tax code. I applaud Speaker Ryan and Chairman Brady for their leadership and hard work to bring about pro-growth tax reform that will strengthen manufacturing in America and make our economy more competitive. There is much work to be done, but I am encouraged that the final product will create a modern tax code for the modern manufacturing economy.

Vermeer Corporation President and CEO Jason Andringa said:

Equipment manufacturers need a simpler tax code that provides permanent tax relief for manufacturing companies of all types. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act introduced today is an important step toward comprehensive tax reform that will tilt the global playing field back in favor of U.S. manufacturers and spur manufacturing job growth across America. I urge our elected officials in Washington to work together to enact permanent and comprehensive tax reform to grow the economy and create more jobs for Americans.

Rick Alton, President, Compact Equipment Division, Manitou Group, said:

The tax reform legislation introduced today in Congress is an important step toward improving the business environment for manufacturers in the United States. Equipment manufacturers support pro-growth tax reform, and hope that Congress will work swiftly to simplify the code, lower rates for manufacturers of all types, and encourage manufacturing job growth in America.

General Kinematics President Tom Musschoot said:

I want to commend our leaders in Congress for introducing comprehensive tax reform legislation. This proposal would provide meaningful tax relief for equipment manufacturers including General Kinematics. Congressman Peter Roskam, who serves as chair of the Tax Policy Committee, deserves special credit for listening to the needs of his constituent businesses in putting together this legislation. We look forward to working with Congressman Roskam to advance comprehensive tax reform, which will help to improve U.S. manufacturers' global competitiveness in the decades to come.

AEM released a report earlier this month outlining the industry's priorities for tax reform. A copy of that report can be found here

Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE

MCMORRIS RODGERS: TAX CUTS AND JOBS ACT IS “MUST-PASS LEGISLATION”

Source: Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA, 5th)




Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after the Ways and Means Committee announced the introduction of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, pro-growth and pro-family legislation that overhauls the outdated tax code to put working men and women first. Sponsored by Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX), the tax reform plan creates more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks for all Americans. To read the bill, text “TAXREFORM” to 50589.

“We have a historic opportunity to improve people’s lives and make our economy boom. This is must-pass legislation for Republicans,” said McMorris Rodgers. “We are lifting the tax burden off hardworking Americans and their families. Our plan will put more money in people’s pockets, reward and restore the dignity of hard work, and encourage innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

“Our tax reform plan is written with working families in mind. Our plan means more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks, and that starts with helping those who are working hard but not getting ahead. American families deserve a tax code that doesn’t stand in the way of success. We want everyone to have the opportunity to realize their full potential and pursue their version of the American dream, and that begins with reforming the broken tax code.

NOTE: Over the past year, the Congresswoman has been hosting a number of tax reform roundtable around Eastern Washington to hear directly from people about the issues they are facing in the tax code and the benefit that relief might bring to them and their families. The Congresswoman’s top priority is to hear directly from middle-class families about why tax reform is so important to them and their communities. For more information about the GOP’s tax reform plan visit FairandSimple.GOP or text “TAXREFORM” to 50589.

Details for individuals and families:

Lowers individual tax rates for low- and middle-income Americans to Zero, 12%, 25%, and 35% so people can keep more of the money they earn throughout their lives, and continues to maintain 39.6% for high-income Americans.

Significantly increases the standard deduction to protect roughly double the amount of what you earn each year from taxes – from $6,350 to $12,000 for individuals and $12,700 to $24,000 for married couples.

Eliminates special-interest deductions that increase rates and complicate Americans’ taxes – so an individual or family can file their taxes on a form as simple as a postcard.

Takes action to support American families by:

Establishing a new Family Credit – which includes expanding the Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $1,600 to help parents with the cost of raising children to help all families with their everyday expenses.

Preserving the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit to help families care for their children and older dependents such as a disabled grandparent who may need additional support.

Preserves the Earned Income Tax Credit to provide important tax relief for low-income Americans working to build better lives for themselves.

Streamlines higher education benefits to help families save for and better afford college tuition and other education expenses.

Continues the deduction for charitable contributions so people can continue to donate to their local church, charity, or community organization.

Preserves the home mortgage interest deduction for existing mortgages and maintains the home mortgage interest deduction for newly purchased homes up to $500,000 – providing tax relief to current and aspiring homeowners.

Continues to allow people to write off the cost of state and local property taxes up to $10,000.

Retains popular retirement savings options such as 401(k)s and Individual Retirement Accounts so Americans can continue to save for their future.

Repeals the Alternative Minimum Tax so millions of individuals and families will no longer have to worry about calculating their taxes twice each year and pay the higher amount.

Provides immediate relief from the Death Tax by doubling the exemption and repealing the Death Tax after six years. Family-owned farms and businesses will no longer have to worry about double or triple taxation from Washington when they pass down their life’s work to the next generation.

Details for job creators of all sizes:

Lowers the corporate tax rate to 20% – down from 35%, which today is the highest in the industrialized world – the largest reduction in the U.S. corporate tax rate in our nation’s history.

Reduces the tax rate on the hard-earned business income of Main Street job creators to no more than 25% – the lowest tax rate on small business income since World War II.

Establishes strong safeguards to distinguish between individual wage income and “pass-through” business income so Main Street tax relief goes to the local job creators it was designed to help most.

Allows businesses to immediately write off the full cost of new equipment to improve operations and enhance the skills of their workers – unleashing the growth of jobs, productivity, and paychecks.

Protects the ability of small businesses to write off the interest on loans that help these Main Street entrepreneurs start or expand a business, hire workers, and increase paychecks.

Retains the low-income housing tax credit that encourages businesses to invest in affordable housing so families, individuals, and seniors can find a safe and comfortable place to call home.

Preserves the Research & Development Tax Credit – encouraging our businesses and workers to develop cutting-edge “Made in America” products and services.

Strengthens accountability rules for tax-exempt organizations to ensure the churches, charities, foundations, and other organizations receiving tax-exempt status are focused on helping people and communities in need.

Modernizes our international tax system so America’s global businesses will no longer be held back by an outdated “worldwide” tax system that results in double taxation for many of our nation’s job creators.

Makes it easier and far less costly for American businesses to bring home foreign earnings to invest in growing jobs and paychecks in our local communities.

Prevents American jobs, headquarters, and research from moving overseas by eliminating incentives that now reward companies for shifting jobs, profits, and manufacturing plants abroad.

The House Ways and Means Committee will mark up the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on November 6, 2017.

CLICK HERE to read the full legislative text of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

CLICK HERE to read the section-by-section summary of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

CLICK HERE to read the policy highlights in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

CLICK HERE to read examples of how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help Americans of all walks of life

CLICK HERE to read how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help Middle-Income Americans.

CLICK HERE to read how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help Main Street businesses.

CLICK HERE to read how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will unleash American competitiveness and create American jobs.

Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE

American Action Network Statement On Introduction of The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

Source: American Action Network




Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- American Action Network (@AAN) Executive Director Corry Bliss released the following statement following the introduction of The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:

“The tax bill introduced in the House today will provide relief for American families and small businesses with a simpler, fairer tax code. Meaningful tax reform means higher wages, more jobs, and a $1,200 tax cut for the average middle-class family. Congress must work together to swiftly pass this tax reform bill, and the American Action Network is committed to spend an additional $8 million supporting this legislation, bringing our total spending to over $22 million advocating for tax cuts for the middle class.”

American Action Network’s Middle-Class Growth Initiative (MCGI), was launched in August to advocate for the passage of meaningful tax reform legislation. The multi-pronged effort, now totaling $14 million, includes advertising on television, radio, direct mail, and mobile billboards in over 50 congressional districts nationwide. AAN has pledged to spend at least $22 million total in efforts to support the passage of tax reform.

Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE

Congress Moves Budget in Wrong Direction With Deficit-Financed Tax Cuts

Source: Concord Coalition



Washington, D.C. - October 28, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- The Concord Coalition said that fiscal policy has taken a very negative turn with adoption of the 2018 congressional budget resolution explicitly calling for deficit-financed tax cuts.

“In the face of a debt burden higher than at any time since the end of World War II and with annual deficits already projected to rise in the coming decades as retirement and health care spending steadily mounts with the long-foreseen aging of the population, President Trump and Republican congressional leaders are placing a huge bet that we can borrow our way to prosperity,” said Robert L. Bixby, Concord’s executive director. “Their enthusiastic embrace of a $1.5 trillion deficit-financed tax cut is risky business and deeply disappointing.”

The main purpose of any budget should be to set priorities and make the necessary trade-offs. This budget, which the House approved today, fails that test. Its main purpose is to cut taxes, not to make hard choices and cut the deficit.

If Republican leaders had wanted to cut the deficit while cutting taxes in a more responsible way they could have adopted the approach taken earlier by the House, which called for deficit-neutral tax reform and $200 billion of enforceable spending cuts. The Senate, however, removed these two provisions. What’s left is a combination of enforceable tax cuts, phantom spending cuts and an unrealistically rosy economic scenario.

“While justified by some as a way to grow the economy, the long-term effect of deficit-financed tax cuts would likely be to slow economic growth and make a bad long-term fiscal outlook even worse,” Bixby said.

There is still time, however, for elected officials to chart a more responsible path. The budget resolution is simply a blueprint. It is not legislation. As Congress and President Trump now begin to write a tax reform bill, The Concord Coalition urges them not to base their plan on the unlikely proposition that large tax cuts will pay for themselves.

Congressional Delegation to Protect Middle-Class Homeowners by Opposing Repeal of State & Local Tax Deduction

Source: New York Governor's Office

New York, NY - October 24, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer today launched a statewide push across congressional districts to urge New York's delegation to stand up for this state's middle class and oppose the repeal or reduction of state and local tax deductions. Governor Cuomo and Senator Schumer today stood with homeowners from Albany, Rensselaer and Saratoga Counties and urged every New York House member to fight against any effort to repeal or reduce the state and local tax deduction, which thousands of Upstate New Yorkers rely on. If the Republican tax plan were to pass, many New Yorkers could be saddled with a tax increase of thousands of dollars. In Albany County, where average state and local taxes amount to $7,250, this proposal would raise taxes on one in three taxpayers by an average of $3,438. Eliminating or reducing the state and local tax deduction would have ripple effects of decreasing home values in the region and placing pressure on state and local governments to reduce their taxes and cut spending on education and their local fire and police departments.

"While Washington is considering a 'tax cut' plan, what it really amounts to is a "tax increase" plan for New York," Governor Cuomo said. "The elimination of State and Local Tax deductibility is a death blow to New Yorkers and our economy. The current plan only makes it possible to cut taxes for other states by using New York and California as the piggybank. Every member of our Congressional delegation must do everything they can to stop this devastating proposal."

"Whether the savings from these deductions becomes money for home repairs, groceries, school supplies or even the yearly vacation, it belongs in the pockets of New Yorkers, period," said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. "These deductions should not be eliminated so people making millions of dollars a year can catch a tax break of their own. It simply makes no sense for Congress to eliminate the SALT deduction, which has helped steady the cost of many middle-class families including those living in the Capital Region-it would be double taxation on the middle class. Without state and local deductions potential homeowners may look elsewhere which could devastate the New York State including the Capital and North Country economy. So, today, with Governor Cuomo we are calling on every member of Congress from New York: do the right thing and block this gut-punch to New York's middle-class. In the meantime, I will do everything in my power here in the U.S. Senate to fight this GOP-led effort to end critical mortgage, state and local property tax deductions."

More Statements on Tax Reform From House Representatives

REP. JENKINS STATEMENT ON TAX REFORM FRAMEWORK
Lynn Jenkins (R-KS, 2nd)
“This framework will serve as an outline as Congress takes an important step to reform our broken tax code and replace it with a simpler and fairer code. One that lowers rates for individuals and families so they save time and money doing their taxes and keep more of their hard-earned money. A tax code that helps jumpstart our economy and creates more opportunities for all Americans.
Read more...

REP. JOHNSON STATEMENT ON GOP TAX REFORM FRAMEWORK
Mike Johnson (R-LA, 4th)
“Our federal tax code is more than 60 times longer than the Bible, and it contains none of the Good News. It has been over 30 years since we updated the tax system, and it is well past time for reform. The Republican plan will create more jobs, fairer taxes and bigger paychecks for working-class Americans and small businesses. We must unleash the free market and get our economy back on track. Passing meaningful tax reform is a crucial first step in completing that mission.”
Read more...

Sam Johnson on Tax Reform Blueprint
Sam Johnson (R-TX, 3rd)
America’s current tax code is complicated and broken, and right now we have an opportunity to fundamentally reform it for the 21st Century. Not only does Washington have a much-needed chance to make the code simpler – which I strongly believe is necessary, but it’s an opportunity to enable businesses so they are better able to compete in the global economy. Even more important, tax reform should reward hardworking American families. This blueprint is a first step. We must get tax reform right, and I look forward to working with my fellow Ways and Means colleagues on behalf of America’s taxpayers.
Read more...

Rep. Kelly Praises Introduction of Unified Framework for Tax Reform
Mike Kelly (R-PA, 3rd)
“Today is a day to celebrate. With this framework, pro-growth tax reform is no longer just a lofty ambition but a concrete plan that is closer to realization than at any point in over three decades. This is a total win for America in every measurable way. For hardworking families and individuals, this means more take-home pay. For American companies, it means no longer having to pay the world’s highest tax rate but, instead, being able to create new jobs, increase wages, and compete globally on a level playing field. For everyone, it means a much stronger American economy supported by a fairer, simpler, more understandable tax code.
Read more...

STATEMENT: REP. KHANNA RESPONDS TO REPUBLICAN TAX PROPOSAL
Ro Khanna (D-CA, 17th)
“The tax reform proposal released today by the White House and congressional Republicans clearly demonstrates that they think it’s better to serve the interests of the very wealthy than everyday people. Shareholders and corporate executives do not need any more favors handed to them. Instead, Congress should commit to a reform plan that encourages economic gains by making the tax code fair for working families. I am also disappointed to see that Trump’s tax plan does away with the state and local tax deduction, which places a greater burden on the residents of California.
Read more...

KILDEE STATEMENT ON REPUBLICAN TAX FRAMEWORK
Daniel Kildee (D-MA, 5th)
“Unfortunately, the Republican plan gives the biggest breaks to the wealthiest Americans. Their plan ends the estate tax, giving a $269 billion tax break to just a few billionaire families, including the Trump and DeVos families. In the same breath, Republicans want middle class families to pay more by increasing state and local tax burdens.
Read more...

NY lawmakers decry Trump’s proposed loss of tax deductions
Pete King (R-NY, 2nd)
“It’s clear people on Long Island would definitely lose under this tax reform,” said Rep. Peter King (R-Seaford), who has joined other New York lawmakers in lobbying Republican leaders and the president on the issue. “That deduction is really essential.”
Read more...


Read even more statements on these pages

ICE, NFL, Graham-Cassidy Bill, Planned Parenthood, Alabama, Election, Terrorism, Earthquake, Taxes, Drugs, Overtime Rule, Title IX

The links can be accessed on this page: http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/09/ice-nfl-graham-cassidy-bill-planned.html

Civil and Human Rights Organizations File Joint Complaint Against DHS on Behalf of Pregnant Women Detained by ICE
American Immigration Lawyer’s Association
AILA joined six other organizations filing a joint complaint today concerning ICE’s treatment of pregnant women in detention, highlighting inhumane conditions, inadequate medical care and failure to implement agency policy limiting the detention of pregnant women.
Read more...

The American Legion blasts NFL for disrespect
American Legion
The leader of the nation’s largest veterans organization characterized professional athletes and other Americans who fail to show respect for the national anthem as “misguided and ungrateful.”
Read more...

Planned Parenthood Obviously Celebrates Defeat of Graham-Cassidy Bill
American Life League
American Life League president Judie Brown stated: “Planned Parenthood's celebration over the defeat of the latest effort to repeal and replace Obamacare is but one more example of its demonic hatred for innocent babies, not to mention its disregard for mothers. We must work harder than ever to defund these bloodthirsty advocates of death by abortion.”
Read more...

APA Relieved Graham-Cassidy Bill Not Headed to Senate Vote, Encourages Bipartisan Solution to Health Care
American Psychiatric Association
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) today expressed its relief that the Graham-Cassidy bill, legislation that would have greatly harmed our patients, is not going to the Senate floor. GOP Senate leadership announced today that it did not have the votes to proceed.
Read more...

Maine Addiction Specialists Cheer Senator Collins’ Statement Opposing the Graham-Cassidy Proposal
American Society of Addiction Medicine
The Northern New England Society of Addiction Medicine (NNESAM), a Chapter of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), commends Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) for her bold, thoughtful, and compassionate statement opposing the Graham-Cassidy proposal to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA). As Senator Collins notes, the bill would have a devastating impact on the Medicaid program, which is the largest payer of addiction treatment services in the country, and would weaken protections for persons with pre-existing conditions like addiction.
Read more...

Roy Moore win in Alabama a victory for the Trump agenda
Americans for Limited Government
“This election turned into a battle between Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Judge Roy Moore largely due to the sheer volume and vitriol of the spending by McConnell’s Leadership PAC which dumped millions of wasted dollars in advertising attacking Moore and Rep. Mo Brooks during the primary process in favor of appointed incumbent Senator Luther Strange. The net McConnell effect was to nationalize the election as a referendum on him and the Washington, D.C. swamp as a whole. Trump tried to bail McConnell out by campaigning from Strange, but like Trump himself, Judge Moore had a well-known record of standing up for his beliefs even in the face of those who could and did politically punish him. And it is that kind of drain the swamp persona that drew voters to Trump in the first place.
Read more...

Center Catalogues Allegations of Qatar’s Terrorism Support
Center for Security Policy
Following the recent meeting of U.S. President Donald Trump’s and the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, the Center for Security Policy is proud to announce the publication of its most recent occasional paper, The Role of Select Non-Governmental Organizations in Doha’s Support for Terrorism.
Read more...

ALLIANCE FAMILY IMPACTED BY MEXICO EARTHQUAKES
Christian and Missionary Alliance
On Tuesday, September 19, a 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit Mexico City. Only a few days later on Saturday, September 23, two more earthquakes with magnitudes of 6.1 and 4.5 rattled Oaxaca, a few hundred miles southeast of the capital. 420 people have died, over 3,000 buildings are in danger of collapse, and more than $8 billion of damage has occurred so far as a result of these quakes.
Read more...

Evangelist Alveda King: America, Take the Knee
Christian Newswire
There are challenges with today's young people wanting to "take the knee" and turn their backs on our National Anthem and American Flag. As we honor our nation, it would be good to extend the tradition of honoring America, not by attacking cherished symbols, but by including everyone in the conversations on peace and nonviolence. I for one would like to see the Negro National Anthem (Lift Every Voice and Sing) included in tributes to our nation.
Read more...

CLUB FOR GROWTH LEADS COALITION URGING TRUMP TO END TAXATION OF “PHANTOM INCOME;” ENCOURAGES EXECUTIVE ORDER
Club for Growth
Club for Growth along with nearly 30 other conservative groups sent a letter to President Trump and Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin asking that they issue an executive order that would index capital gains to inflation so that taxpayers are no longer forced to pay taxes on “phantom” gains. In the letter, the conservative organizations explain that this Executive Order can essentially serve as a pro-growth “down payment” to help ignite the broader conversation of tax reform ahead of the Big Six’s proposal.
Read more...

Video: Regulatory Dark Matter: A hidden tax on consumers and businesses
Competitive Enterprise Institute
The Competitive Enterprise Institute released a video, “Regulatory Dark Matter,” which explains a new, dangerous tool government bureaucrats are using to circumvent the law and Congressional review of new regulations. There are tens of thousands of executive branch and independent agency actions including guidance documents, proclamations, memoranda, bulletins, circulars, letters and more that are subject to little scrutiny or democratic accountability but carry practical, binding regulatory effects.
Read more...

Outrageous 35% Anthem Rate Hike Could Have Been Prevented, Creates New Urgency For California Medicare-For-All Legislation, Says Consumer Watchdog
Consumer Watchdog
Anthem is raising rates on 135,000 California consumers who buy individual polices 35 percent because California is one of the few states without the ability to say no to unjustified rate hikes.
Read more...

New FBI Report Shows Drug Arrests Increased in 2016, As Drug War Rages On
Drug Policy Alliance
According to the FBI’s latest Uniform Crime Report released today, law enforcement agencies in the US made more than 1.57 million arrests for drug law violations in 2016, a 5.63% increase over the previous year. That’s one drug arrest every 20 seconds – and over three times more arrests than for all violent crimes combined.
Read more...

Leftist Agenda Attacks Christian Ministry's Online Donations
Earned Media
"This is now the FIFTH major company or service to terminate with us for the same reason. It began with Amazon Smile, which rejected us from its charitable services program because American Vision is listed on the Southern Poverty Law Center's ridiculous and notoriously biased 'hate group' list which is used to target conservative Christian organizations who dare to stand up for truth, liberty, and justice."
Read more...

EPI submits comments to DOL on overtime rule
Economic Policy Institute
EPI Policy Director Heidi Shierholz filed comments today with the Department of Labor in response to a Request for Information (RFI) on the overtime pay rule. Shierholz writes that that the 2016 update to the rule was critically needed because the overtime threshold—under which workers were guaranteed time-and-a-half for working more than forty hours a week—had been allowed to erode dramatically, and urges DOL not to weaken the rule.
Read more...

FACE OPPOSES NEW YORK’S LAW TO NOTATE TRANSCRIPTS OF TITLE IX DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
Families Advocating for Campus Equality (FACE)
Families Advocating for Campus Equality (FACE), a not for profit organization that advocates for fairness and due process on our college campuses, strongly opposes transcript notations of disciplinary actions involving sexual and intimate partner impropriety. Transcript notations are an unnecessarily punitive measure, akin to public shaming, that will serve to inflate the disciplinary action, a confidential process that is slim on due process and is conducted by students and faculty with no professional legal or judicial experience, into a life sentence so that the student is permanently barred from education and jobs
Read more...

==Support The Ponder News==

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Americans Against Double Taxation

Americans Against Double Taxation, a coalition comprised of state and local government organizations, education and other public service providers, and housing organizations, has come together to launch a robust campaign to preserve the state and local tax deduction (SALT) in any comprehensive tax reform proposal. The coalition, which successfully preserved SALT in the tax reform package signed by President Ronald Reagan in 1986, today sent a letter to the leadership of the House Ways and Means Committee and the Senate Finance Committee to urge them to ensure that Americans can continue claiming this vital deduction.



Find out more about them by clicking HERE

Legislation Introduced to Raise the Wages of Working Families

Source: House Representative Tim Ryan (D-OH, 13th)

Washington, D.C. - September 14, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Tim Ryan (D-OH) joined Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) to introduce legislation in the House that would give working families a much-deserved wage boost to compensate for 40 years of wage stagnation. Companion legislation has been introduced in the Senate by Sen. Sherrod Brown. The Grow American Incomes Now (GAIN) Act would greatly expand the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) so that more working families and childless workers are eligible to receive it. The bill comes at a time when the Trump Administration and Republicans are supporting devastating budget cuts to programs that help working families in exchange for tax breaks for the very wealthy and big corporations.

The GAIN Act roughly doubles the EITC for working families and increases the credit for childless workers almost six-fold. Under the proposal, the maximum tax credit available increases to $12,131 for families with three or more qualifying children; $10,783 with two qualifying children; $6,528 with one qualifying child; and $3,000 with no qualifying children. Currently, a family of three can receive a maximum credit of $6,318 and someone with no children can receive at most a $510 tax credit.

The proposed EITC expansion would also be phased out at higher income levels and remain fully refundable. It would allow for a worker with no children who makes up to $37,113 annually to still be eligible to receive the tax credit and covers a family with three or more children making up to $75,940 a year to receive the EITC. The current maximum qualifying income to receive the EITC is $15,010 for childless workers and $48,340 for families with three or more children.

“America is the richest nation in the history of the world, and yet still too many hardworking families are living paycheck to paycheck. Wages for low-income and middle-class families haven’t gone up in over 30 years, while massive amounts of wealth have gone to the top one percent. This trend is not sustainable, and will not allow long-term economic success for the United States. It is about time we make sure American workers are given a fair wage for a fair days work. That is why I am proud to be an original cosponsor of the GAIN Act, which would provide for a $1 trillion expansion of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). This would put an extra $12 thousand dollars in the pockets of hardworking families making $75 thousand a year. This bill will give Americans the raise they deserve,” said Rep.Tim Ryan

“The EITC is already proven at lifting people out of poverty. By strengthening it to reach more families and individuals, it can have a lasting impact on our economy,” said Rep. Ro Khanna. “In today's age of automation and globalization, where work is sometimes seasonal and hours are often curtailed, this bill provides every hard-working American with a fair income for their labor.”

The bill also recognizes many Americans live paycheck to paycheck and includes a provision that would provide an Early Refund EITC as an alternative to payday loans and other predatory lending products. EITC advances would be capped at $500 each taxable year and would be subtracted from the recipient’s total credit when they file their annual tax return. Instead of receiving the lump sum once a year, this early refund makes it easier for working families and individuals to pay their monthly bills and provide financial security. The bill also lowers the qualifying age for the EITC from 25 years old to 21 years old.

Who Benefits from the EITC

More than 26 million working families and individuals in every state received the EITC in 2015 according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. Under the bill, it is estimated that nearly half of American households will pay no federal individual income tax in 2017, up from the 44 percent under current law.


Current Maximum Credits vs. the Brown-Khanna GAIN Act

Type of household Current maximum amount of credit (2017 Tax Year)

Maximum amount of credit under Brown-Khanna

Three or more qualifying children $6,318 / $12,131

Two qualifying children $5,616 / $10,783

One qualifying child $3,400 / $6,528

No qualifying children $510 / $3,000


Legislation and cosponsors

House cosponsors (as of 9/11/17): Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Don Beyer (D-VA), Robert Brady (D-PA), Julia Brownley (D-CA), George Kenneth Butterfield (D-NC), Matt Cartwright (D-PA), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), John Conyers (D-MI), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Elijah Cummings (D-MD), Peter DeFazio (D-OR), John K. Delaney (D-MD), Keith Ellison (D-MN), Dwight Evans (D-PA), Marcia L. Fudge (D-OH), John Garamendi (D-CA), Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), Raul Grijalva (D-AZ), Luis V. Gutierrez (D-IL), Colleen Hanabusa (DHI), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Robin Kelly (D-IL), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), Gwen Moore (DWI), Jerrold Nadler (D-NJ), Grace F. Napolitano (D-CA), Donald Norcross (D-NJ), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DWA), Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Bobby Rush (D-IL), Tim Ryan (D-OH), Jan Schakowsky (DIL), Bobby Scott (D-VA), Jose E. Serrano (D-NY), Darren Soto (D-FL), Nydia Velazquez (D-NY), Maxine Waters (DCA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Frederica Wilson (D-FL)