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In recent years, Congress has made important strides in reducing the tax burden on Americans. We have expanded the child tax credit, expanded eligibility for the lowest tax bracket, provided marriage penalty relief, and begun to eliminate the death penalty. While I have supported these tax cuts, I agree with the President that we need to undertake fundamental tax reform. The current tax code is far too large, complex, and burdensome. While this would involve the elimination of deductions and credits, it would more than be offset by a lower rate. While I was a member of the Colorado State legislature we implemented a 5 percent flat tax for Colorado. I believe we need to take similar action on the federal level I am also willing to consider a national sales tax or other ideas. This is appealing in that it would allow for elimination of the IRS. However, mechanisms would have to be put into place to ensure that the collection burden on small businesses would not be excessive, and that the income tax could not be resurrected. Unless the 16th Amendment were to be repealed, Americans could end up with both an income tax and a consumption tax.
Whatever specific proposals are considered, my priority is to ensure that any reform is a benefit to the middle class, which has borne much of the burden of the current system. Any reform should also reward savings and investment and promote economic growth and job creation. Finally, a new, simpler system must not penalize marriage or family and should protect the rights of taxpayers.
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My home page contains information about the U.S. Senate, Colorado, how I may be of assistance to you as well as how to contact any one of my six offices. The next time I am in your neighborhood, I hope we can meet to discuss the issues important to you and your family. My staff and I look forward to hearing from you.
