(Washington, DC) - Congressman Wally Herger today marked "Tax Day," the deadline to file tax returns, by supporting an effort on the House floor to prevent a looming, record tax increase on the American people, and endorsing a proposed Constitutional amendment designed to eliminate wasteful Washington spending.  Herger issued the following statement regarding these initiatives.  Click here to listen to his radio actuality discussing the mounting burden on American taxpayers:

 “Tax Day 2008 comes as many Americans are pinching pennies in response to a slowing economy, record gas prices, and out-of-control health care costs.  It serves as a crystal clear reminder that the tax burden on the American people is too high.

“Unfortunately, the Democratic majority recently passed a budget that envisions a record $683 billion tax increase on the American people, including an increase in the marriage penalty and a $500 per child tax increase.  The average California household would send an extra $3,331 of their money to Washington.  No income-level, age group, or family size would be exempt.  On this Tax Day, I voted to support blocking this looming tax increase, but the majority party defeated the effort.

“In addition, I support a proposed Constitutional amendment to hold back the unending desire of Congress to spend more taxpayer money.  While we must meet the needs of our troops and other essential priorities, I strongly believe most federal programs can easily withstand smaller spending increases or even reductions.  Additionally, the unsustainable growth in entitlement spending will place an unconscionable financial burden on future generations.  Constraining this spending is the right and responsible thing to do.  The proposed amendment would help put our nation on the track of fiscal responsibility.”

The proposed amendment would prohibit federal spending from growing faster than the economy (nominal GDP).  Though it could be suspended if a declaration of war is in effect, or by a two-third vote of Congress, the amendment is meant to provide real restraint and encompasses all federal spending.