Hoyer Statement on Tax Day

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) released the following statement on Tax Day. Due to the observance of Emancipation Day in the District of Columbia, the federal filing deadline has been moved to Monday, April 18:   

"For many Americans, the arrival of the tax filing deadline each year is a reminder of our shared responsibility to support our democracy through the taxes we pay.  But Monday's deadline ought to be more than just the reminder that we are all stakeholders in the common enterprise of America.  It is also a reminder that Congress has a responsibility to both ensure that taxpayers' money is spent wisely, transparently, and on investments that benefit the security and prosperity of every American and to improve our tax code through comprehensive tax reform that lowers rates while broadening the base to make certain we can afford our investments in a strong future for America.

"I will keep working to bring Democrats and Republicans together toward that end.  At the same time, Congress has to stop playing partisan games with the Internal Revenue Service and its dedicated civil servants, and I am disappointed that House Republicans will be bringing bills to the Floor next week that will make it harder for the employees of the IRS to do their work.  Demagoguing hard-working federal employees simply because they are tasked with collecting Americans' taxes is wrong.  Instead, we should be making sure the IRS has the resources and technology it needs to ensure that our tax system works for those it serves.

"I hope Democrats and Republicans can come together this year to begin the hard work necessary for bipartisan tax reform for both individual and corporate filers that contributes to fiscal sustainability, ensures fairness, and supports the growth of jobs and opportunity for the future."