Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz released the following statement in response to efforts by Senate Republicans to block must-pass legislation that would provide tax relief to millions of families who would otherwise pay higher taxes under the alternative minimum tax (AMT). Schwartz serves on the Committee on Ways and Means, which wrote the original House legislation.

“It is outrageous that Senate Republicans are behaving so irresponsibly. With their misguided delay tactics, Senate Republicans are sending a clear message that they do not care that 23 million middle class Americans will be hit with a hefty and unexpected tax bill next year.

“We have said it many times, and it is worth repeating – the Democratic Congress is not going to put America deeper into debt.  Unlike the previous Republican Congress, we are adamant that any actions we take will be paid for.

“The House passed a fiscally responsible plan that protects middle class taxpayers from being hit with the AMT.  American taxpayers deserve to have tax relief. Senate Republicans are wrong – they must allow an up and down vote on this bill.”

###