ate Counsel.”
“Tax reform faces roadblocks
By Bernie Becker
GOP tax writers, seeking to be the first lawmakers in a generation to rewrite the code, already feel buoyed by what they see as newfound energy from rank-and-file conservatives on tax reform.
But while those conservatives want to make tax reform a centerpiece of the GOP’s 2014 agenda, Camp still faces many obstacles in actually getting a tax revamp into law this year – scheduled to be his last with the Ways and Means gavel.
In fact, other tax writers say Camp is unlikely to delve too deeply into the nitty-gritty of his tax reform bill – which he has been crafting, with much difficulty, for months – at the retreat scheduled for the end of January in Cambridge, Md.
Instead, the tax chairman will likely look to more broadly reassure Republican lawmakers that have heard much about the popular tax breaks that will be on the chopping block in a reform effort, according to an aide familiar with discussions.
Camp, the aide said, will not shy away from how difficult tax reform will be. But he will also explain the economic benefits he expects to come from a streamlined tax code, as he seeks to make Republicans more comfortable about reform prospects moving forward.”