Value-Added Tax for U.S.
- Share via
Kuttner points out that liberals may be in favor of an $80-billion VAT. The liberals can then pursue their spending programs using the resulting tax windfall. However, a tax of this magnitude on top of state sales taxes of up to 8% would crush consumer spending and cause the next recession.
Increased taxes will not solve the budget deficit as long as Congress increases its spending in lock step with the incoming revenues. Congress must place strict limits on its own spending before raising taxes.
WILLIAM W. HILDRETH
Pacific Palisades
More to Read
Get the L.A. Times Politics newsletter
Deeply reported insights into legislation, politics and policy from Sacramento, Washington and beyond. In your inbox twice per week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.