FairTax plan is simple and easy

To the editor:

Evidently, Gerald Stevens has not read the FairTax book, which currently sits atop the New York Times bestseller list. Neal Boortz and John Linder have proposed a 23 percent national sales tax to replace the federal income tax. The benefits of the FairTax plan are numerous, while misconceptions abound. The advantages of the FairTax:

1. Everyone would pay the tax when purchasing an item, including illegal aliens and those who drink from the public trough.

2. Corporations would not have to make business decisions based on tax liability, because they would pay no federal income tax. This would create jobs and keep jobs in the United States.

3. Productivity and earnings would not be taxed, and this would spur economic growth.

Common misconceptions about the FairTax:

1. Prices of goods and services would automatically rise 23 percent. Boortz and Linder suggest that 23 percent of the current price of goods and services are the result of the costs of lobbyists and accountants paid to reduce tax liability. At worst, prices of goods and services would remain unchanged.

2. Poor people would be burdened by costs of the necessities of life. Boortz and Linder suggest a monthly rebate equal to the sales tax on the necessities of life be paid to each and every taxpayer.

As a tax preparer, Stevens has a vested interest in talking down the FairTax plan. I encourage everyone to read "The FairTax Book" and decide for themselves.

BILL FOSTER, Charleston, Mo.