Image: HJR0017 Co-Prime Sponsor Rep. Dennis Powers presents the Resolution on the House Floor. Image Credit: TN General Assembly
The Tennessee Conservative [By Olivia Lupia] –
HJR0017, a House Joint Resolution encouraging Congress to enact the federal Fair Tax Act, passed the full Tennessee House on Thursday, March 13.
The resolution, sponsored by Jake McCalmon (R- Franklin- District 63), mirrors much of the language in the Fair Tax Act (H.R. 25), namely calling for the abolition of the federal income tax and the institution of a national sales tax instead.
The HJR critiques much of the current tax system and denounces federal payroll taxes, including those on social security, Medicare payroll, and self-employment and supports the repealing of the 16th Amendment, all consistent with H.R. 25’s aim of promoting, “freedom, fairness, and economic opportunity.”
During Wednesday’s House session, Representatives heard an explanation of the resolution from Rep. Dennis Powers (R-Jacksboro-District 36) before discussion ensued.
Democrat Rep. Sam McKenzie (Knoxville-District 15) argued against the bill speaking in opposition to the potential 25% national sales tax rate, claiming the sales tax would place a greater burden on the poor and would not be equitable to the more wealthy.
Rep. Powers and Rep. Justin Lafferty (R-Knoxville- 89) spoke in favor of the resolution, clarifying some of the logistical points of the bill and reminding members of the breadth of cuts the Act would make to the federal tax system before Rep. Todd Warner (R-Chapel Hill-District 92) called the question, moving the body to a vote.
The final vote was 69-22 in favor of the HJR, with all “NO” votes coming from House Democrats.
Now that the HJR0017 has passed, a copy will be sent to President Trump and each member of the Tennessee Congressional Delegation.
Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
