Tax Freedom Day Demonstrates the True Cost of American Tax Bill

Tuesday April 22 marked the 113th day of the year, otherwise known as Tax Freedom Day. This is the day until which Americans work simply to pay their taxes in 2008. For the average American taxpayer, all earnings so far this year have gone only to meet tax obligations.

Facing rising gas prices, growing food costs, and increasing medical expenses, Americans have worked long and hard all year to provide for their families. Unfortunately, the only one to reap the rewards of their labor has been the Tax Man. It is stunning that Americans work longer each year to pay taxes than they do to put a roof over their family’s head, or feed and clothe their children.

Our indebtedness to the government must be reduced, as it burdens family budgets more than any other cost. When we decrease the strain of taxation, the American people are free to make their own spending decisions and our economy and nation are rewarded.

Disturbingly, a massive tax increase looms on the horizon, further threatening our national prosperity. Democrat leaders in Congress are determined to expand the government at any cost to American families. It is imperative that those who recognize the menace of a greater tax bill join us in protecting wallets and ensuring long lasting economic expansion.

According to the Tax Foundation, in 2008, Americans will work 74 days to afford their federal taxes and 39 more days to pay state and local taxes. Meanwhile, buying food requires 35 days of work, clothing 13 days, and housing 60 days. Other major categories are health and medical care at 50 days, transportation takes about 29 days, and recreation requires 21 days.