Max Baucus: “the Sense of the Senate amendment of my colleague from Arizona notes that the current tax system is overly complex and…”

“the Sense of the Senate amendment of my colleague from Arizona notes that the current tax system is overly complex and burdensome and that action must be taken to produce a tax system that is fairer, flatter and simpler. I couldn't agree more and I look forward to working with him and the rest of my colleagues to reform a tax system that is badly in need of repair. I was unable however, Mr. President, to vote for Senator Kyl's amendment because of the provision requiring a supermajority vote to raise taxes. Ironically, I believe this proposal could impeded meaningful tax reform. It could have the effect of locking in existing loopholes unless those of us who want real tax reform could muster a supermajority. Congress may ultimately determine that in fact more than a simple majority of its members should be required to increase taxes. However, a number of questions need to be addressed before we take such action. What is a supermajority? Two thirds of the members, or perhaps three-fourths? Can the supermajority requirement be waived in the event of a national emergency? How would we define a national emergency? And how do we define what it means to 'raise' taxes? Does closing a corporate loophole--which would increase the taxes paid by the companies benefitting from the loophole--require a supermajority? If it does, Congress will be hard pressed to close corporate loopholes.”