Congressman Gonzalez Votes to Restore Tax Fairness for Texans

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) voted in favor of H.R. 5377, Restoring Tax Fairness for States and Localities Act of 2019, a bill he also cosponsored. This bill will mitigate the damage done by one of the most devasting provisions in the Republican tax bill, the $10,000 cap on the State and Local Tax (SALT), and reverse the massive giveaway to the wealthiest tax bracket.

"The restoration of the SALT deduction will provide much-needed tax relief for families, teachers, first responders, and middle-class Americans," said Congressman Gonzalez. "There were many errors in the tax bill passed by Republicans and I am proud to be part of the solution to ease the minds of working families and those who serve our community. As we approach the upcoming tax season, millions of Americans, including those in the 15th District of Texas, will benefit from this legislation."

In addition, the bill will eliminate the SALT marriage penalty by allowing married couples to jointly file to deduct $20,000 and married couples can file separately to each claim $10,000.

The legislation will also enhance deductions for teachers and create a new deduction for first responders. The bill is set to double the deduction for educators' out-of-pocket expenses from $250 to $500 and create a $500 above-the-line deduction for professional first responders in regard to uniform cost and training.