Today, Congressman Ken Calvert joined a majority in the House of Representatives to pass significant tax and reconciliation legislation with a narrow vote of 218 to 214. The bill aims to prevent what has been described as the largest potential tax increase in history while also allocating resources for military and border security enhancements.
Rep. Calvert expressed his support for the bill, stating, "I voted for this bill to provide historic tax relief to Riverside County families and allow them to keep more of the money they earned." He emphasized that the legislation is designed to shield average taxpayers from an impending 22% tax hike. The bill introduces new tax benefits, including exemptions on tips and overtime earnings, along with an expanded child tax credit. Additional measures include a new deduction for seniors and an expanded state and local tax (SALT) deduction.
The key provisions of the bill aim to:
- Prevent a $4 trillion tax increase
- Eliminate taxes on tips and overtime
- Expand the Child Tax Credit
- Introduce a new senior deduction
- Expand SALT deductions
National security funding is another major component of the legislation. It includes financing for modernizing military capabilities and securing borders. According to Rep. Calvert, "The bill includes vital national security funding that will ensure America has the resources necessary to defend our shores and sky from adversaries." This encompasses upgrades such as completing Phase Two of the border wall and enhancing Coast Guard operations.
In terms of healthcare reforms, Rep. Calvert highlighted efforts to maintain Medicare and Medicaid benefits without cuts: "Let me be clear - the bill does NOT cut Medicare or Medicaid benefits for our seniors, the disabled, children or parents with dependents." However, it introduces work requirements for able-bodied adults without children who receive Medicaid benefits.
The healthcare-related provisions focus on:
- Eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse
- Blocking illegal immigrants from receiving benefits
- Enforcing work requirements
- Protecting Medicaid for vulnerable populations