Letter to Congress on the Economic Security and Recovery Act of 2001

Dear Member of Congress:

The September 11th attacks have left an indelible mark on our national landscape. As we move forward as a united, determined nation, Congress can take important steps to unleash the entrepreneurial spirit of America. With the economy slowing and Americans worried about their economic security, Congress needs to pass a pro-growth economic stimulus package.

On behalf of CSE’s 280,000 members I ask that you VOTE YES in favor of H.R. 3090, the “Economic Security and Recovery Act of 2001.” CSE will use this as a KEY VOTE to determine your eligibility for our Jefferson Award. This award is provided to legislators who espouse the CSE principles of limited government, lower taxes, and more freedom. It will be presented at the conclusion of the 107th Congress.

I would also ask that you VOTE NO on any potential SUBSTITUTE to H.R. 3090. CSE will also consider this a KEY VOTE to determine your eligibility for our Jefferson Award.

Vote YES for H.R. 3090, the “Economic Security and Recovery Act of 2001.” This bill, while not perfect, substantially improves the incentives for both investment and consumption. By enacting H.R. 3090 Congress will:

Strengthen the economy through essential corporate tax incentives such as repeal of the corporate Alternative Minimum Tax and depreciation reform.

Provide economic stimulus through capital gains reductions and accelerating the reductions in marginal rates for taxpayers.

Vote No for any substitute amendments. Any substitute amendment will likely increase the amount of spending while lowering the amount of tax relief provided. Through emergency measures and other spending bills, Congress has already pumped an additional $75 billion of government spending into the economy. As stated by President Bush on October 5th Congress should now “pass tax relief equal to or a little bit greater than the monies that we have already appropriated.” Government spending is no substitute for a vibrant, dynamic private sector.

According to President Bush, America faces a long war ahead with an uncertain outcome. The time is now for us to get our fiscal house in order. The tax relief provided by the “Economic Security and Recovery Act of 2001” represents a critical step for our country in its time of need. Further, the Thomas bill is balanced as it includes several proposals championed by the minority party in the House.

Please remember that both the VOTE FOR H.R. 3090 and AGAINST the substitute will be considered as KEY VOTES. These KEY VOTES will be used to determine your eligibility for our Jefferson Award, which will be distributed at the conclusion of the 107th Congress.

Sincerely,

Paul Beckner

President and CEO