Bush Touts Tax Cut Plan at U.S. Chamber

WASHINGTON, D.C. — President George W. Bush highlighted his $1.6 trillion tax relief plan for working families and small businesses during a national tax cut address at the United States Chamber of Commerce. The Bush address was carried live via satellite to more than 70 local chambers of commerce across the country and was viewed by thousands more chambers via the Internet.

"The Chamber joins President Bush in saying now is the time for tax relief for all working families," said U.S. Chamber President and CEO Tom Donohue, welcoming President Bush before a crowd of supporters. "The Bush plan will give a much-needed shot in the arm to U.S. consumers and to millions of small-business owners who pay taxes as individuals."

The Chamber is a leader of the Tax Relief Coalition, a group of nearly 700 trade associations and businesses representing millions of small and large businesses that strongly support President Bush's $1.6 trillion tax cut package. The plan includes an across-the-board cut in marginal rates, repeal of the death tax, and permanent extension of the research and development tax credit.

"The Bush plan is good for employers large and small," said Kelly Stanley, U.S. Chamber chairman and president and CEO of Ontario Corp., headquartered in Muncie, Ind., who introduced the president. "Putting more disposable income in taxpayers' hands will boost consumer confidence and send more money flowing into the economy."

Through its Grassroots Action Information Network, or GAIN, the Chamber has motivated tens of thousands of businesses across the country to phone, write, or lobby their senators and representatives in support of the Bush plan.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation, representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

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