Washington—Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today released the following statement after House Republicans passed tax reform legislation. The Senate is expected to take up its version after the Thanksgiving recess.

“The Republican tax cut bill was written to help the rich at the expense of the middle class. That’s the bottom line, and that’s why this bill needs to be voted down.

“The main priority for Republicans is permanent tax cuts for rich individuals and big corporations. In return, they’re offering long-term tax increases for working families and an attack on the Affordable Care Act. And that’s just not acceptable.

“The Joint Committee on Taxation estimates that in 2021, families earning between $10,000 to $30,000 would pay an additional $5.8 billion more in taxes. And by 2027, families earning less than $75,000 would pay an additional $27 billion in taxes.

“Meanwhile, millionaires would see a tax cut of $5.5 billion. This is appalling.

“Californians will be hit especially hard by the elimination of the state and local tax deduction, or what we call SALT. The 6 million California households that claim the deduction could either see their tax bill go up or see cuts to vital services like schools and roads. Middle-class communities simply can’t afford to lose this important deduction.

“In order to cut taxes for the rich, Republicans want to add almost $1.5 trillion to our deficit over the next decade. The increased deficit will quickly become an excuse for Republicans to make drastic cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid in the future. Americans who benefit from these essential programs shouldn’t be the victims of tax cuts for millionaires and billionaires.

“Democrats want tax reform that helps all Americans get ahead. Instead, the Republican plan leaves the middle class holding the bill.”

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