August Recess
It’s August, and that means “Recess!” in our nation’s capital. Members of congress are back in their home states and districts meeting with constituents and stepping up campaigning with less than 100 days until Election Day. The halls of Congress may be quiet; but, out across the country, those elected officials are getting an earful from citizens eager to make their voices heard about the issues most important to them. This is an excellent time to let your Senators and Representative know that what they are doing (and not doing) in Washington is affecting your business.
Congress recessed with no progress on extending current tax rates set to expire at the end of the year. The Democrat-controlled Senate passed the President’s proposal to increase taxes on incomes over $250,000, an increase that would hit many small and medium-sized manufacturers. The Republican-led House of Representatives approved an extension of current rates for all taxpayers, which AMT supports; but neither bill had a chance of passing the other chamber. The debate, however, gave members the opportunity to show voters where they stand on the issue.
Also left on the table is what to do about the dozens of expiring or expired tax provisions referred to as the “tax extenders.” Many are important to manufacturers, such as the R&D tax credit, 100% bonus depreciation, increased Sec. 179 expensing levels and current estate tax rates.
Take advantage of the August recess to talk to your elected leaders about taxes and other issues important to your business. Set up a meeting or a tour of your facility to show your members of Congress firsthand what it means to be an American manufacturer. You can get "Tips for Conducting Successful Plant Tours with Public Officials" on AMT's Advocacy page and review the status of important issues. You can also send a letter from the Legislative Action Center by typing your zip code in the "Contact Your Representatives" box. There are sample letters on a number of issues. If you have questions, email Amber Thomas, AMT's Advocacy Director, at athomas@AMTonline.org.