The PROVE IT Act is a Stepping Stone to a Carbon Tax, Big Government Regulation, and Higher Prices for Consumers

The PROVE It Act, being marked up by the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee this week shows that bad ideas are alive and well in Washington.

This bill is far more than a benign measure to “study” carbon emissions. In reality, it sets the stage for a carbon tariff on imported goods which is more big-government regulation and an indirect tax that will burden American workers and consumers with higher costs and red tape. As Americans already grapple with the consequences of inflation, the last thing they need is another policy that adds more financial strain on average families. If only their elected representatives all saw it that way.

Fortunately, a broad coalition of free-market and taxpayer advocacy groups understand the disastrous effects of PROVE IT, and we are making our collective voice heard. This week, the Taxpayers Protection Alliances join more than 40 conservative and free market organizations in sending a joint letter to Congress voicing our opposition to this misguided legislation.

Our primary concern with the PROVE IT Act is the economic strain it imposes. A carbon tariff is not just a tax on imports, but a precursor to a more extensive domestic carbon tax system. Such a system would increase the cost of living and doing business and place an unfair financial burden on the American public by raising costs of energy, food, transportation, and more. The coalition’s letter articulates these concerns clearly.

As senators consider the bill, TPA and our allies in the coalition are emphasizing the need for policies that work for rather than against consumers and taxpayers. While addressing environmental issues is important, it should not come at the expense of financial hardship for Americans.

TPA calls on lawmakers to stand against this misguided and potentially financially disastrous legislation.