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Thankfully, a large majority of Americans have noticed a change in their income this year. Many received hefty end-of-year bonuses and raises. Some recently joined the workforce, which is experiencing the lowest unemployment rate since 2000. Even into February and March, Americans continued to notice bigger paychecks. That’s because under that Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), Americans are keeping more of their hard-earned money.
This Tuesday, Tax Day, was for once an occasion to celebrate. For the last time, Americans filed under the broken, 32-year-old code. Next year, the process will not only be simpler, but bring lower tax rates as the TCJA doubles the standard deduction and the child tax credit to relieve working Americans and families. Learn more here.
WSSU Nursing School
This week Winston-Salem State University experienced the extraordinary opportunity being unleashed by TCJA across the country. As part of its initiative to invest in community health with its tax savings, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina gave $1 million to Winston-Salem State University’s nursing school to alleviate the shortage of nurses in North Carolina. It’s proof that when the government scales back, philanthropy is fostered and communities develop—without passing through the bureaucracy in Washington!
Reforming the IRS
Our new tax code also calls for an IRS overhaul to bring the agency into the 21st century. On Wednesday, the House passed three bills, together known as the “Tax Payer First IRS Reform Package”. These bills work together to transform the IRS into an agency with a “taxpayer first” mission. Reforms include appointing a new IRS administrator, shifting the burden of proof back on to the IRS when examining taxpayers, and modernizing the IRS’s information systems so Americans have access to the resources they need when they need them.
Bipartisanship
Despite the disproportionate attention drawn to our differences, shared civil interests bring members of Congress from both parties together even off the Hill. This week, the Republican Leader and Democratic Whip co-hosted an event to preview the “Americans and the Holocaust” exhibit at the Holocaust Museum. It was a sobering experience to share with my bipartisan colleagues and reminder to cherish the democracy that makes our differences possible.
North Carolinians in the Capitol
Every week I meet with many different constituents, industries, and non-profits who bring their concerns to my Washington D.C. office. Here is a snapshot of a recent meeting I held.
Mayland Community College President Dr. John Boyd
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What’s Coming Up?
Next week, the House will consider legislation to reform and improve America’s competitiveness and safety in aviation. H.R. 4, the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, will bring stability and continued investment into our nation’s aviation infrastructure, and I look forward to its debate in the House Chamber.
Sincerely,
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