Duncan Cosponsors Bill Allowing for Voluntary Tax Contributions

Washington, DC -- Congressman John J. Duncan, Jr. (R-TN) voiced his continued support for middle class Americans by signing onto legislation earlier this week giving the wealthiest taxpayers the option of returning more of their incomes to the federal government.

The legislation, H.R. 5783, the “Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is” Act, amends the U.S. Tax Code to allow citizens to make voluntary donations above their normal tax liability to pay for federal government programs.  The legislation was introduced on April 10 by Congressman John Campbell of California.

H.R. 5783 was introduced in response to complaints from many wealthy liberals that taxes should be higher on everyone, including small businesses, married couples, and couples with children.  Increasing taxes for these groups only hurts hard-working Americans during this uncertain economic time.

“What seems like a lot of money to most Americans does not even faze people that have enormous wealth,” said Duncan.  “Many of these wealthy people wouldn’t even notice if they had to pay more in taxes.  So, this is bill would give them the opportunity to contribute more without increasing taxes and further burdening middle class families.”

Wealthy liberals like Barbra Streisand and Warren Buffet have frequently complained that taxes are too low.  This bill gives them the opportunity to voluntarily pay more taxes.

“Saying and doing are two completely different things.  If these Hollywood-types and others are truly concerned about our Nation’s citizens, they should not mind to contribute more to the U.S. Treasury in order to better programs that serve their fellow citizens.” 

H.R. 5783 is currently under consideration by the House Ways and Means Committee.