Georgia Mountain News

Rep. Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (R-GA) has introduced the Fair Tax Act, a legislative proposal aimed at overhauling the current tax system in the United States. The bill, known as H.R. 25, seeks to replace existing taxes with a national consumption tax called the Fair Tax.

The proposed Fair Tax would eliminate personal and corporate income taxes, death and gift taxes, and payroll taxes. It also aims to remove the need for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Rep. Carter stated, "The Fair Tax is exactly that – fair. It is the only tax proposal out there that is pro-growth, simple, and allows Americans to keep every cent of their hard-earned money while eliminating the need for the IRS altogether."

The bill has garnered support from several co-sponsors including Reps. Andrew Clyde (R-GA), John Carter (R-TX), Scott Perry (R-PA), Eric Burlison (R-MO), John Rutherford (R-FL), Warren Davidson (R-OH), Andy Biggs (R-AZ), Dale Strong (R-AL), Rich McCormick (R-GA), Barry Loudermilk (R-GA), and Andy Harris (R-MD).

Rep. Barry Loudermilk emphasized simplicity in taxation: “Hardworking Americans should not need a team of lawyers or accountants to fill out their taxes – they need a simple system that encourages growth and innovation." Rep. Clyde echoed this sentiment by supporting the act as a means to "empower hardworking taxpayers."

Rep. Strong highlighted inclusivity in taxation: “The Fair Tax Act would streamline and simplify our tax code, making sure everyone in our country, including illegal immigrants, pays their fair share." Rep. McCormick added that it broadens revenue while reducing loopholes.

First introduced in Congress in 1999 by former Georgia Congressman John Linder and later supported by Rob Woodall, the Fair Tax has been described as efficient and non-discriminatory by its proponents.

Steve Hayes from Americans for Fair Taxation remarked on its alignment with broader policy goals: “The Fair Tax requires immigrants who are in the U.S. illegally to pay taxes...President-elect Trump has called for a secure border, the elimination of income tax, and an overhaul of government efficiency."