Statement of Rep. Frelinghuysen (NJ-11)

Statement

"Today I opposed H.R. 1 because it will hurt New Jersey families who already pay some of the highest income and property taxes in the nation!

"Specifically, this measure unfairly limited the state and local tax (SALT) deduction which is vital to many families. H.R. 1 also reduced mortgage interest deductions. These changes will certainly erode property values, one of the most important financial assets for many New Jerseyans. These provisions alone could do much damage to the business climate in our state, a trend we must never tolerate, let alone encourage.

"I am also opposed to the elimination of the medical expense deduction.

"I had hoped that 2017 would be the year that Congress enacts permanent, pro-growth tax reform. In fact, I was looking forward to voting for legislation that creates jobs, increases paychecks, reinforces fairness and expands the economy here at home, while strengthening America's competitiveness around the world.

"However, I simply could not support the legislation due to very negative impacts it would have on so many of my fellow New Jerseyans.

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