01/10/07 Flat tax and balanced budget

Idaho's Larry Craig has introduced a balanced budget amendment in the US Senate. He did the same in the House in the past but not while the Republicans were in control of Congress. So why now? Craig says those tax and spend Democrats are his concern. CRAIG "Their great job in life is to raise taxes on the average taxpayer and spend more money in government. That has been their history. That is what they would have done over the last several years if Republicans had not been in control and held it down as much as we have." But under the GOP control in the past six years deficits have run at record high levels. The lack of money is one reason the Craig-Wyden legislation hasn't been approved. Rural Idaho counties could get 24 million dollars for schools, roads and other services if the new Congress approves the funding. CRAIG "It is my great hope that we can at least now and in a reasonably short time get it extended for one year." Craig and Oregon's Ron Wyden are also working together on a bill that would change cumbersome tax code. CRAIG "I believe, I have always believed, that a flat tax was the most appropriate. I've studied it over the years. I introduced my first flat tax idea back in the early 80's." He hopes to have a flat tax bill prepared by the end of the month. Today's Idaho Ag News Bill Scott