Repeal The Death Tax

Letter to the Editor
Daily News-Record

William O'Meara's letter in response to your editorial misses the point entirely on repeal of the estate tax, or death tax.

Government was not created to redistribute wealth. Its responsibilities are of a higher nature, including ensuring our tax code is fair and equitable.

Our Founders warned us about "vast disparities" of wealth, but who in the Commonwealth believes Jefferson and Franklin would advocate the unjust seizure of money and property? Wasn't there a revolution about that?

Most Virginians recognize the unfairness of the death tax, as statewide poll results from 2002 confirmed 82 percent of Virginians support repeal of the death tax.

Unfortunately, legislators continue to move slowly to bury this harmful double tax, which causes job losses and dampens capital investment, though there is hope they will do the right thing soon.

Fortunately, only a few Virginians believe bureaucrats can spend money better than entrepreneurs and that the risk-takers who have worked hard to create wealth for all are only out for themselves.

Most Virginians understand small-business owners and their families can invest money more wisely in their communities, keeping small businesses open and ensuring local charities and citizens benefit.

David W. Lee
Harrisonburg