Senate Parliamentarian's Key Decisions on GOP Tax and Gun Bill

Senate Parliamentarian Rulings Impacting GOP Initiatives

The Senate parliamentarian has made pivotal moves by rejecting the Republican bid to exempt certain religious schools, including Hillsdale College, from an income tax on college endowments. The proposed bill would significantly escalate taxes on wealthy college endowment returns while exempting Hillsdale, prompting a political outcry.

Gun Silencer Deregulation Not Approved

Another critical area reviewed by parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough was the deregulation of gun silencers. The provisions aiming to ease restrictions on suppressors, a priority for the gun lobby, were also denied, leaving the GOP scrambling to modify this comprehensive budget reconciliation package.

• Hillsdale College's lobbying efforts fell short
• Gun regulation changes rejected
• Implications for the GOP's legislative strategy

Sen. Jeff Merkley criticized the bill, stating, “We have been successful in removing parts of this bill that hurt families and workers,” highlighting the ongoing battle over the proposed legislation. Meanwhile, Sen. Chris Murphy emphasized that keeping strict regulations on suppressors is necessary for public safety.

Broader Implications

These decisions underline potential setbacks for the GOP’s ambitious plans, making it clear that the road ahead for major tax and regulatory changes is fraught with challenges. The Democrat's scrutiny of these changes reveals intense partisanship as the GOP aims for a July 4 passage.