WASHINGTON — Citing a "growing crisis of fiscal negativity," an area Democrat unveiled legislation Tuesday that would impose a modest surcharge on any citizen who complains about taxes, with proceeds going toward a federal office dedicated to listening to those complaints.
"For too long, Americans have been grumbling about their tax burden for free," the lawmaker told reporters outside the Capitol. "That ends today. If you want to voice your frustration, you can do so like everyone else — by paying for it."
Under the proposal, a complaint made in passing would be assessed at 2 percent of the complainer's annual income, while complaints made on social media would be taxed at a higher rate due to their "reach and impact." Sighing audibly while reviewing a pay stub would be considered a complaint for tax purposes.
"We estimate this will generate roughly $4 trillion in its first year, mostly from people complaining about this tax."
A Congressional Budget Office analysis found that the measure would be fully self-funding within minutes of its announcement.
At press time, the lawmaker had proposed a second bill exempting members of Congress from the tax on the grounds that their complaints are "a form of public service."
