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The federal estate tax was enacted in 1916 to raise revenues. Its intent was also to reduce the concentration of wealth, thus increasing economic equality.
Policymakers should retain estate and inheritance taxes as important components of our tax structure.
Federal and state estate and inheritance taxes should affect only the largest transfers.
State and local governments issue bonds to finance important projects that meet social goals and benefit communities. Bonds are attractive because they provide financial flexibility.
Food and nutrition programs should have adequate funding to engage in robust outreach efforts.
Motor fuel taxes should be indexed for inflation and increased as necessary to fund transportation infrastructure and services.
Excise taxes on individual commodities, such as tobacco or alcohol, should at least keep pace with inflation. One way to do this is by levying them on an ad valorem basis.
State and local governments charge fees for the use of certain services. These fees are based on the principle that people should pay according to the benefits they receive.
User fees should directly relate to the services received. They should not unfairly burden people with low incomes or unduly limit access to public services.