Tax the wealthy who don't contribute to efforts to improve economy

The July 19 cartoon reminds us that the Bush tax cuts are running out Dec. 31. Rich conservatives contend that they need the money so that they can put people to work while liberals say that the extra revenue is needed to pay unemployment benefits and other worthy causes.

Dave Ross (of CBS radio fame) has an excellent idea that lets us all win if Congress will act promptly. Promptly pass a bill that would keep the tax cuts for one more year but with strings attached. Unless the wealthy did spend money to put people to work the tax increases would double the following year on those who did not contribute to measures that would improve the economy.

Perhaps a graduated increase could be enacted if legislation can be written to reward the best contributors with zero increase and a double increase for those who took no action. Records would be required to be exempted from a tax increase.

Contact your representatives because prompt action in needed.

Russell C.W. Crom

Mount Prospect