Posted: Oct 12, 2005 By: Justin McCollum

Subject: Did the Panel Even Read the Executive Order?

Comment: Where does RAISING taxes and driving business away come close to what is asked in the E.O.? This is exactly what comments on Oct. 11 tell us that the panel is going to recommend. Read the excerpt from the E.O. below and tell me how on earth (or anywhere) that this recommendation meets the E.O.'s criteria?

"Sec. 3. Purpose. The purpose of the Advisory Panel shall be to submit to the Secretary of the Treasury in accordance with this order a report with revenue neutral policy options for reforming the Federal Internal Revenue Code. These options should:

(a) simplify Federal tax laws to reduce the costs and administrative burdens of compliance with such laws; (b) share the burdens and benefits of the Federal tax structure in an appropriately progressive manner while recognizing the importance of homeownership and charity in American society; and (c) promote long-run economic growth and job creation, and better encourage work effort, saving, and investment, so as to strengthen the competitiveness of the United States in the global marketplace.

At least one option submitted by the Advisory Panel should use the Federal income tax as the base for its recommended reforms. "