Press Releases

Last month, U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05) and his Republican colleagues released A Pledge to America and put forward a plan to end the economic uncertainty that surrounds entrepreneurs and small businesses today.

“In order for our small business owners to be successful, they need to have confidence in the economy and the assurance that the government isn’t going to slap a new regulation on them tomorrow,” said Rogers. “Sadly, bureaucrats in Washington who have never owned or operated a business do not understand this and they continue to burden our small business owners with new taxes, more regulations, and by changing the rules on a daily basis. This has got to stop. We need to end the economic uncertainty once and for all and empower our small businesses so that they can expand and create jobs. Enough with the red tape, it’s time to put the American small business owner first.”

In A Pledge to America, Republicans address the uncertainty facing small businesses and propose a plan to revive free enterprise and move America away from a debt-driven economy. First, they would permanently stop all job-killing tax hikes that are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2011. Next, they would give small businesses a tax deduction equal to 20% of their business income. This will provide entrepreneurs with a much-needed infusion of capital for investment and hiring. The plan would also rein in the red tape caused by bureaucrats in Washington. Rather than allowing federal agencies to implement regulations as they please, Republicans would require congressional approval of any new federal regulation that has an annual cost to the economy of $100 million or more. And finally, the plan would repeal the 1099 reporting mandate in the healthcare bill that requires small businesses to report to the IRS any purchase they make that is over $600.

Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents. For more information visit www.halrogers.house.gov.