U.S. Rep. Doggett: When it comes to latest Republican tax bill, we ought focus support on small businesses, not those who are already at the top

The full text of Rep. Doggett's remarks follow below:

Republicansare always so much better in the names they give these bills than what's inthem. I think in considering this one, we have to look at what it is andwhat it is not.

Itis not an economic recovery measure. A nonpartisan analysis has shown that theeconomic benefits are considered so small as to be incalculable.

Itis not helpful to sole proprietors who do not benefit at all from this bill.

Itis not a way to reduce the deficit or the national debt. Indeed, this is ameasure that will immediately $46 billion to the national deficit.

Wewere told only yesterday that because of a pressing national debt, we can nolonger fund hot meals for seniors through the Meals on Wheels program in Texas…that we could not afford to provide federal resources that are necessary thereon child abuse, keeping a child with a disability at home, or helping a seniormaintain their independence… that there just aren't the resources to dothat. But today, we are told there is $46 billion we can add to the debtfor a nice sounding bill.

Whatis this bill?

Itis another failed Republican retread. It is a measure that will help those atthe top rather than those who are really struggling to get to the top.

Iam concerned about the Ice House on the Westside of San Antonio, about thebeauty shop in Lockhart, about the auto repair shop in San Marcos. Butthose are not the places that will receive the principal benefits of thismeasure. Indeed, 125,000 millionaires will get more in tax benefits out of thisthan many of the owners of those businesses earn during an entire year. In fact, more than the median income throughout San Antonio and Austin in Southand Central Texas.

Thisbill will be a boon to highly paid professionals, private equity firms, hedgefund managers and professional sports teams. I think they've received enougheconomic benefit in the past with the Bush Tax Cuts.

Weshould be focusing our support for small businesses not on those who arealready at the top and should be contributing a little to the shared sacrificeto get our national debt under control and meet basic human needs.