| |
Source: U.S. Sen. Richard Burr (N.C.), 8/3/12
Despite the fact that this was the Senate’s last week in session before entering the August recess, nothing was accomplished to address the most pressing issues facing our nation – our economic recovery and job creation. Today’s report that unemployment increased to 8.3% in July, coupled with last week’s announcement of anemic 1.5% economic growth in the second quarter of this year – a 25% decrease in growth from the first quarter – is further evidence of the dangerous situation our economy is in and underscores the need for real action that will have an impact on our recovery. Without certainty in areas like taxation, government regulation, and health care, businesses are unable to grow or hire new workers, leaving our economic recovery stagnant. The lack of leadership from the President and the Majority on this issue is shameful, and it not only jeopardizes our own economic situation, but also that of our children, grandchildren, and future generations of Americans to come. It is unfair to saddle them with our debt and our problems just because some in Washington are unwilling to make tough decisions.
Finance Committee Passes Irresponsible Tax Extenders Bill
On Thursday, I attended a Finance Committee hearing where I voted against committee passage of a bill that included the extension of tax breaks for select industries and special interests ranging from Hollywood to appliance manufacturers. Using the tax code to promote certain industries and businesses is not reform, it is crony-capitalism. If we are serious about tax reform, we need to completely overhaul the entire tax code and level the playing field for everyone.
|
