Tax Reform: Simplification is Good Policy

All taxes distort markets – economists call these distortions unintended consequences. Good tax policy achieves its ends with a minimum of unintended consequences. Does our current tax code, which has become riddled with tax expenditures, deductions, credits and expiring provisions, qualify as good tax policy?

Undertaking tax reform raises many questions, such as:

• Why does tax code complexity matter?
• Historically, how have tax revenues responded to changes in tax rates?
• After accounting for transfers, who pays the most taxes?
• Why do marginal rates matter while average rates don’t?

For answers to these questions and more, please join the Mercatus Center at George Mason University for a new Capitol Hill Campus featuring Dr. Antony Davies, Associate Professor of Economics at Duquesne University. This program is not about the accounting and legal particulars of tax law, but a broader look at the impact of tax policy on the economy.

Space is limited. Please RSVP today to reserve a seat.

This event is free and open to all congressional and federal agency staff. This event is not open to the general public. Food will be provided. Due to space constraints, please no interns. Questions? Please contact Erin Connolly, Events Associate, at econnolly@mercatus.gmu.edu or (703)993-9913.