Porter Goss: “But tomorrow is coming. Tomorrow, May 9, is Tax Freedom Day, the day that working Americans can finally begin to keep…”

“But tomorrow is coming. Tomorrow, May 9, is Tax Freedom Day, the day that working Americans can finally begin to keep the money they earn rather than paying it to the Government in taxes. The fact is the tax burden most Americans face has been increasing every year. I am pleased that Congress, through the balanced budget agreement reached with the President, is actively pursuing some relief in the areas of the family tax credit, capital gains, and estate tax relief. The budget agreement provides for a total of $135 billion in tax relief over the next 5 years. That is a big step. I hope this will be a first step on a longer road toward true tax relief, including real tax reform. Congress has to find ways to provide additional relief and give due consideration to alternatives to the current tax system, which is unfair and inefficient. Mr. Speaker, dare we look forward to a day when the average American no longer spends more in total taxes than on food, clothing, and housing combined? We are spending more on taxes than we are spending on food, clothing, and housing for our families. Something is wrong. Washington speaks of this beginning tax relief as Washington's generosity. I have a bulletin for taxpayers: It is not Washington's money, it is your money.”