    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book I)]
    [June 18, 2003]
    [Page 654]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on House of Representatives Action on Estate Tax Legislation
    June 18, 2003

        I commend the House of Representatives for acting to permanently
    eliminate the death tax. The death tax results in unfair double taxation
    of income and it hurts America's small businesses, which are the engine
    of job creation. Today's vote is a victory for fairness, job creation,
    and certainty for family businesses, farmers, and ranchers.
        Permanently eliminating the death tax is an important step toward
    increasing fairness in the Tax Code and promoting economic security. I
    urge the Senate to act on this important matter so that we can eliminate
    this unfair tax once and for all.