(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Following introduction of the Olympic Tax Elimination Act, Rep. Rich Nugent (FL-05) issued the following statement:

“U.S. Olympic athletes are required to pay income tax on medals earned and prizes received at the London Games.  These individuals have dedicated their lives to the goal of one day representing their country in front of the world.  They don’t do it for the money. They do it for the love of the game and for the pride they have in this country.  With the untold number of injuries and the hours of sweat and dedication that these athletes have endured, simply for the opportunity to represent us in front of the world, the American people should be welcoming them home with open arms when they return.  Instead, it’s the IRS.  That isn’t right and we’re going to change it.

“President Obama may look at these athletes and say, ‘If you were successful, somebody along the line gave you some help. There was a great coach in your life.  Somebody built training facilities and equipment.  If you have a gold medal, you didn’t earn that.  Somebody else made that happen.’  Well, frankly, that’s not the way the rest of us Americans see it.  I think these athletes have contributed their fair share.  Let’s let them keep their awards.  They have, in fact, earned it.”

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