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FireMan writes:

in response to olddoggie:

Define what money spent means. Would it include houses, financial transactions,profits on investments, etc. Could people avoid taxes by trading things? Unfortunately, accountants and financial experts will find a way around a program based only on money spent.

You can avoid taxes by trading things now..... Tell me, what will Walmart take in trade for one of their televisions? How bout Home Depot? What will they take in trade for a few buckets of paint?

The whole "black market" or "underground barter market" scenario is a ridiculous idea. To assume that a significant portion of the country would simply resort to a barter society just to avoid paying taxes is just nonsense. Since we could do that right now to avoid income taxes, why don't we? Just work for food. Work for "gifts" of clothing. Declare nothing on your taxes.

You know why it won't work? Because we all rely on such a diverse scope of products. You can't just barter with your neighbor to get all your electronics, car parts, furniture, home improvement supplies, junk food, etc....

People will always find SOME way to cheat. The idea is to minimize the ways to do it. Our current system favors the politicians, mega-rich, and criminals. A consumption tax would force people to pay at the register. All people. Rich, middle, lower income, politicians, tourists from other nations, illegal immigrants, drug dealers, etc.... Using cash to stay off the government radar would no longer work.

If you really want to see what is involved......


or you can read the entire text of the bill (H.R. 25) here....
