Comment: Dear Mr. Mack, Mr. Breaux, and fellow panel members, There are many years of education and experience in your panel so I can imagine it's tempting to create "simple NEW tax codes" that are just a convoluted as our existing codes are. Can you imagine how many trees could be saved if the new code could be published in the form of a leaflet? And how much more money in taxes would be paid (instead of withheld) if individuals weren't so afraid of / intimidated by taxes? Individual income taxes ought to be based PER PERSON. Whether they are married or not should not be a consideration. If an individual has an income, they pay taxes. There should be a flat tax, the same percentage for all individuals across the board. Period. Make it fair. If the percentage is reasonable enough, there won't be as much effort to defraud the government from what is needed. Also, limit what can be deducted. Allowed should be spousal and child support, education, and medical expenses (unless elective). Cars, clothes, travel expenses and such are all job related and should not be deductible. ) Tighten up. Simplicity is the key. Thank you for considering my opinion. Regards, Mary Whetnight |