Urges the states to compel Congress to propose an amendment to repeal the Sixteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution and return taxation authority to the states
Impact
If passed, HR9 would significantly impact the current structure of federal taxation. The resolution proposes that states would gain the exclusive authority to levy income taxes, which would eliminate federal income tax collection. This would effectively dissolve the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as it currently exists. States would have the flexibility to determine their own taxation methods while remaining accountable for the funds they collect and remit to the federal government based on a predetermined budget.
Summary
House Resolution 9 (HR9) urges states to adopt resolutions compelling Congress to propose an amendment to the Constitution that would repeal the Sixteenth Amendment. The Sixteenth Amendment, ratified in 1913, grants Congress the authority to levy and collect income taxes without apportionment among the states. HR9 advocates for a return of taxation authority to the states, suggesting that this would enhance state sovereignty, transparency, and fiscal responsibility. Proponents believe this shift would benefit citizens by allowing states to create their own tax policies tailored to their specific needs.
Contention
There are notable concerns regarding the implications of repealing the Sixteenth Amendment. Critics of HR9 argue that such a move could lead to an unpredictable and potentially chaotic tax environment across the country. The ability of states to enact varied tax laws could result in disparities that may disadvantage certain populations depending on where they live. Moreover, the requirement for Congress to pass an annual balanced budget would mean that states could withhold tax payments if the federal government fails to comply, triggering potential financial instability at the federal level and affecting services reliant on federal funding.