Baker Institute Conference: Tax Policy Issues


by Josh Earnest and George Hatoun

The third discussion panel, which focused effect of alternate methods of taxation -- specifically flat and consumption taxes -- was moderated by George Zodrow, Economics Department chair and professor of Economics at Rice.

It featured Boston University Professor of Economics Laurence J. Kotlikoff; Eric J. Toder, deputy assistant secretary for tax analysis in the Department of Treasury; Charles E. McClure Jr., senior fellow at Stanford University's Hoover Institution; and Rudolph G. Penner, managing director of Barents Group of KPMG Peat Marwick.

In a technical and complex discussion of the American tax code, the panelists presented papers on a variety of subjects, from the generational effect of a consumption tax and difficult transition from the current tax system to alternative.

The general consensus of the panel was that an economic crisis is eminent if the tax structure is not reformed.

"The case for fundamental tax reform is compelling," Zodrow said.


This item appeared in the News section of the November 15, 1996 issue.


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