Retirees still pay taxes, and they vote

Is it just me or is there confusion around the tax rebate promised this spring? According to some experts it’s a very focused rebate aimed at those who will use it to spend. Spending rather than saving would stimulate the economy.

My question is who will be receiving this windfall? All reports I’ve seen have been carefully worded to specify “working” taxpayers. Income amounts of $75,000 for single people and $150,000 for a couple have been mentioned. Children boost the rebate to a maximum of $1,200 per family.

We are retired but we certainly pay taxes. We also have a list of things we’d do with a rebate: replace our flood-ruined carpet is No. 1 on the list.

When spreading the money around, another thing to consider, beyond fairness, is that we oldsters vote. We vote faithfully. We vote in numbers. We vote passionately. I would suggest that when the Senate gets down to fine-tuning the rebate they consider this. I’m sure my vote will weigh more heavily than mere justness.

Beverlee Bowman Price