BACKGROUND: As you may know, this bill, HR 1186, would allow Conscientious Objectors to military taxation a legal way to pay their taxes into a non-military fund. It would restore freedom of conscience to its rightful place in American history and political culture, increase tax revenues, not effect the budget, be an educational tool on tax returns, and correct the inequity in current CO law.
The commonly used "floodgate" excuse -- that everyone would want to be exempt from taxes -- does not apply given the pivotal and central historical role of conscience and the conviction of those willing to do civil disobedience on a daily basis to be able to practice their religion or ethics.
Also, the U.S. military budget accounts for almost half the discretionary federal income tax spending, and the Pentagon outspends its top 12 enemies "combined." The RFPTF also has the support of a variety of religious denominations.
See sample letter which can also be used as a basis for phone calls.
ACTION: Please call House Ways and Means Committee member Representative Lloyd Doggett to tell him you support the bill. If you cannot call send an email.
Representative Lloyd Doggett Austin: (512) 916-5921 Wash., DC: (202) 225-4865You may also wish to contact the senators, although the bill does not have a number in the senate presently.
Senator Phil Gramm Dallas: (214) 767-3000 Wash., DC: (202) 224-2934 Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison Austin: (512) 916-5834 Wash., DC: (202) 224-5922(If you live in another district, contact your own representative or senator).
For more information and a sample letter please check out the National Campaign for a Peace Tax Fund or call 888-Peace-Tax. Copies of email messages may be sent to info@peacetax.com for tracking purposes for an upcoming lobby visit.