Does a system that charges $700 for each word of trust and commitment make any sense?

 Of course not. But that's exactly what the irrational and punitive federal tax code does by imposing the so-called "marriage penalty" on folks who choose to join themselves in holy matrimony.

Yes, some 25 million American couples pay an average of $1,400 more on their income taxes just because they are married.

But there's good news!!!!

President Bush and Republicans in Congress are determined to provide relief from the marriage penalty. During the week of March 26, the U.S. House - with my full support - will vote on a proposal that would undo the worst effects of the marriage penalty.

This is long overdue reform, and we hope folks from the other political party will join us in taking this important step. The last time this change came before the House, 51 Democrats DID vote for marriage penalty relief.

The marriage penalty hits middle income families the hardest. In fact, it strikes most often against couples in which the higher earning spouse makes between $20,000 and $75,000 a year. It also is most unfair to working women who are often taxed at a 50 percent marginal rate!!!!

For all those reasons, it's time for us to deal with the unjust marriage penalty. And I intend to do my part by voting FOR reform.