The Economist magazine floated this idea. Why are corporations taxed when they don't get to vote on it? Should only individual stockholders' dividends be taxed?
Thomas Sowell: There are no solutions, just trade-offs.
They are welcome to vote with their feet, no one is forcing them to set up their business here. But, NO, they are not people. Apparently they think doing business here is worth it.
There are many who are taxed without representation, without being able to vote, why should corporations receive special status. Why not residents of DC, resident aliens, felons, etc., all of which are taxed, yet are denied the right to vote. Besides, corporations have ample representation, pretty much own most of Congress.
"Remember to always be yourself. Unless you can be batman. Then always be batman." Unknown
I don't think there is anything in the constitution about taxation without representation, at least not from what I see searching it.
Now, so far as taxing dividends on individuals go, I think that is a double tax since the corporations have already paid a tax on their profits and dividends are usually based on profits.
Does the constitution forbid double taxation? I'm not real clear on that. Maybe there was a Supreme Court decision on it?
I don't think double taxation is banned. For example the money you take home after paying taxes is then taxed again after you die as a death tax. IIRC taxation without representation isn't against the law but it was a rally cry during the American revolution. Common examples today? Hotel tourism and rental car taxes. Most of the people who use these services are tourists and don't get to vote on the initial fees and/or increases.
Thomas Sowell: There are no solutions, just trade-offs.
