Progress and Help Request

I traveled for work today; got home and did paperwork for 3+ hours. I'm way behind. David installed more and more trim - getting close to done; Mom puttied the nail holes, and made a big "return" trip to Lowe's for me - money back in my pocket for a change.

I added the link the HR 4881 off to the side. It is very straightforward and an easy read. I'm strongly in favor of it - the reason being is that the IRS does not allow a casualty loss deduction for Chinese Drywall losses not covered by insurance - though I believe they should. This legislation will eliminate the need for the IRS to make any interpretation or rulings - the legislation will direct the deduction rules for them.

My read on this is that it is a deduction, not a credit as Rep. Wittman stated at the Town Hall. Nevertheless, still a step in the right direction. The bill is in the House Ways and Means Committee presently, and probably a long way from becoming law.

My favor to ask of you is to write to Congress. Particularly if you are NOT in Virginia, Florida, Louisiana, etc - where support is already going to be strong. So, family in Ohio, Minnesota, Illinois, California, etc - please go to your Representatives' website and write them (particularly if they're on the committee) - most have electronic methods to voice opinion. If you not sure what to write, I suggest the following, or something like it:

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To the Honorable Representative XXXX,

I am writing to voice my support of HR 4881 - Toxic Drywall Relief Act of 2010. I have family who is suffering from this terrible situation, and the IRS is not acting responsibly - this legislation will clarify the role of the IRS and will help hard-working Americans to help themselves. I hope you support this bill to become law, and any role you may be able to play to accelerate this legislation would be noted and appreciated by your constituents.
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Tomorrow, Jennifer gets back from her business trip, which will free me up to get back at this in the evenings. I have high hopes to have point-up next week and painting the weekend following this - lots to do between now and then though... not to mention a boatload of paperwork to finish...