Neal Opening Statement at Tax Administration Markup

(As prepared for delivery)

As we consider another assortment of tax administration bills, tomorrow marks one year since my colleagues on the other side of the aisle cajoled the Big Ugly Law over the finish line. Just yesterday, for the second time this year, House Republicans couldn't keep control of the Floor long enough to commemorate their Big, Ugly, Law. Another failed birthday party, but what a fitting tribute for a failed law which has harmed so many families.

They promised lower costs. That hasn't materialized.

They promised prosperity. That hasn't materialized either.

And they promised more money in people's pockets. That certainly hasn't materialized.

Instead, families are paying more for groceries, housing, energy costs, and travel. Consumer confidence has hit all-time lows, and economic growth has fallen well short of the rosy projections they touted.

And while workers and families are being asked to stretch each paycheck, those at the very top are experiencing a completely different reality.

Nowhere is that more clear than in our tax system. At every turn, the Trump Administration is showering the rich-less scrutiny, more lenient rules, and fat refunds.

The American people deserve a tax system that is fair, functional, and has earned their trust. But right now, millions are worse off because the Trump Administration shrunk the IRS's workforce by nearly a third. There are not enough employees to open the mail, answer phones, or assist taxpayers with their issues. People are left waiting for hours on the phone and months for their refund.

On the other side of the spectrum, the President has secured a lifetime of never having to worry about IRS scrutiny again…for himself. The Administration can try to change the subject, but serious questions remain about his immunity agreement and taxpayer-funded slush fund, which is why Republicans should stand up and join us in making sure this can never happen.

A fair tax system is the bedrock of a democracy and depends on public confidence that everyone, without regard for wealth or status, is held to the same standard. When the president can shield himself from IRS audits, confidence erodes.

Today's markup includes a handful of bills. But these bills cannot reverse how this Administration has systematically weakened the IRS, undermined confidence in our tax laws, and further tilted the system toward those at the top.

One year later, let the record reflect: the promises evaporated, and all that remains in their place are higher costs and more dysfunction. Leaving the people wondering when this Committee will start addressing the problems on their hearts and minds.

With that, I yield back the balance of my time.

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