The column below reflects the views of the author, and these opinions are neither endorsed nor supported by WisOpinion.com.

Corporations and the richest people in America are able to use loopholes and special tax breaks to avoid paying what they owe.

All of us pay taxes when we buy gas and groceries. Local folks and small businesses pay taxes for roads, schools and services their communities need.

Many corporations and the wealthy among us pay lower tax rates than teachers, nurses and public employees. Corporations with billions in profits routinely pay little or nothing in federal taxes while hugely rewarding CEO’s and executives.

Our present tax policies written by Congress benefit wealthy elites and powerful corporations instead of the people who actually do the work to make our nation great.

We need Congress to implement policies making the ultra-wealthy and big corporations pay their fair share.

First, demand billionaires and those at the top of the financial ladder have their wealth taxed the same way wages are taxed.

Second, raise corporate rates, ending tax breaks that shift profits offshore and enforce the Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax so they cannot pay taxes at rates lower than the rest of us.

Third, reform the estate tax that allows inherited wealth to escape taxation. Implement a financial transaction tax and tax billionaires on wealth gains.

These changes could raise $10 trillion over the next decade and lower costs for the rest of us.

Demand political agendas that tax wealth and profits at levels commensurate to their standing at the top of our nation’s economic ladder.

Take back your government through the power of your vote! Send no one back to Congress who will not commit to tax reform benefitting ordinary Americans.

– Hanson, of Elkhorn, is a member of the Walworth County Democratic Party.