Christopher Bergin explains:
Our tax code isn’t about collecting revenue. It’s about taking care of political friends and being used as a campaign election issue to divide and conquer the electorate.
Okay, I think I understand. And sooooo, what about tax reform?
The point of Washington is to get reelected. And “can-kicking” – which I define as avoiding any difficult tax policy decision — is an Olympic sport in Washington that our politicians excel at. That is why my answer to the question “When do you think we will get tax reform?” is now “Not until something really bad – and I mean really bad – happens.”
That's ominously exciting. Do you mean, like, Independence Day really bad? Defense Secretary Herman Cain really bad? Or Grover Norquist/David Cay Johnston mud wrestling really bad? Give us a visual.
Commissioner Doug Shulman said in a statement today that the agency would make it easier for taxpayers to seek withdrawal of liens when they pay a tax debt or make arrangements to pay in installments for debts of less than $25,000. The agency also raised the dollar thresholds before liens are typically filed. “We are making fundamental changes to our lien system and other collection tools that will help taxpayers and give them a fresh start,” Shulman said in the statement. “These steps are good for people facing tough times, and they reflect a responsible approach for the tax system.” [