(Washington, DC) - Congressman Baron Hill today backed legislation to prevent a tax hike on middle-class families. The AMT Relief Act of 2008 will protect more than 25 million Americans nationwide and almost 41,000 in the Ninth Congressional District from paying the Alternative Minimum Tax. The bill was passed by a vote of 233-189.

“The economic downturn is really hurting Southern Indiana families,” Hill said. “I was proud to back fiscally-responsible legislation that will help ensure families are not forced to pay higher taxes under the Alternative Minimum Tax. 

The Alternative Minimum Tax was originally designed to ensure very wealthy individuals do not avoid paying income tax. The tax now threatens to impact middle-class families, teachers and firefighters – a far cry from its original intent.

The AMT Relief Act of 2008 will not add to the deficit. The bill is fully paid-for and adheres to PAYGO rules.