Teamsters Back Legislation Reining In Anonymous Campaign Money

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International Brotherhood of Teamsters

Feb 05, 2014, 12:30 ET

'Government by the People Act' Would Empower Average Americans

WASHINGTON, Feb. 5, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The International Brotherhood of Teamsters today threw its support behind new legislation that seeks to reform the political campaign finance system and return government to everyday Americans.

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By approving the Government by the People Act, introduced by Rep. John Sarbanes (D-Md.), Congress would curb the warped priorities that hamper today's political system and return it to one that is of, by and for the people. Giving regular Americans a vehicle to fight back against anonymous billionaires will ensure lawmakers are held accountable by their own constituents above outside interests.

The legislation provides everyday Americans with a $25 refundable tax credit to encourage small-dollar contributions to congressional candidates. In addition, it rewards candidates who accept only small-dollar donations by having those funds matched at rates of up to $9 for every $1 received. It also tamps down on dark money interests that drown out the voices of regular citizens.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Visit www.teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and "like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/teamsters.

SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters