[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 43 (Wednesday, April 17, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E560]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           CLERGY HOUSING ALLOWANCE CLARIFICATION ACT OF 2002

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                               speech of

                             HON. RON KIND

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 16, 2002

  Mr. KIND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4156, the 
Clergy Allowance Clarification Act. In western Wisconsin, I have 
personally witnessed the effective and invaluable efforts put forth by 
religious organizations. Not only do they lead congregations in 
worship, they also help combat such traumas as drug-addiction and 
domestic abuse. Our Nation's clergy are worthy of our continual 
appreciation and praise.
  But more importantly, our Nation's clergy are worthy of our support. 
Since the 1920s, Congress has allowed members of the clergy to exclude 
from taxable income a portion of their church income that is used for 
housing. This provision in the tax code has helped churches of all 
faiths expand their community outreach activities and provided clergy 
members with a much deserved tax break.
  Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4156 will clarify current law to allow our clergy 
to continue to receive this important tax benefit. I urge all of my 
colleagues to join with me in supporting this important piece of 
legislation. Our nation's clergy deserve our continued support.

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