Back in January 2014, I published an article calling out the House Ways and Means Committee for ending email contact between ordinary Americans and the lawmakers most responsible for shaping the nation's tax policy. The "Contact" menu at the committee's website stopped offering email, by far the simplest and most convenient method. All of a sudden, only telephone, fax or snail mail were offered.
I'm delighted to report that the new Ways and Means chairman, Rep. Kevin Brady (R-TX), has changed course and re-instituted email contact. Back when the Democrats controlled the House, email was always a standard option. (How do I know? I write articles about taxes, and always send them along to the Ways and Means chairman and ranking member.)
The email blackout began under former chairman Dave Camp (R-MI), and was continued when Paul Ryan (R-WI) took the reins. Ryan of course moved on to become House Speaker; Brady took over the chairmanship in early November.
I have no way of knowing what prompted Brady to bring back email, or even if it was his idea. However it happened, I'm delighted: let the emails flow, as they should have been flowing all along. (Saves money too; at least for the time being, I won't be paying to send any more faxes.)
Of course it's small change we're talking about here, but still: can I get a hallelujah?
