The President's version slightly expands the EITC and the standard deduction. The Senate Minority alternative allows married couples to choose to file singly instead of jointly. I believe marriage tax penalty is needed because the current tax system is biased against marriage. Marriage tax relief has been an ongoing battle for many years now. This year is special because it is the closest we've come to reform.
Several economists argue that the higher taxes force people out of the workforce.
The current House and Senate bills also benefit couples that have one-parent staying at home. The current versions of the marriage penalty reform are a step in the right direction, because they simplify the tax system. They also reduce marginal rates for joint filers as well as cutting taxes in general. Right now, Gov. Bush has the most broad-based plan that provides the most tax relief. Thus all families who use the deduction pay reduced taxes.