WASHINGTON, D.C. - Business Roundtable today issued the following statement on the five-year anniversary of the 2003 Tax Relief:

John J. Castellani, president, Business Roundtable:

"The Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 encouraged increased worker productivity and wages by lowering the taxes on dividends and capital gains and reducing the cost to corporations financing new investment. The Act is an example of how pro-growth tax policies can improve American competitiveness, and increase incomes for retirees and those saving for retirement."

"Sound government fiscal policies, like the 2003 Tax Relief initiative, continue to improve the competitiveness of American workers and businesses, leading to new job creation and higher wages. Allowing these relief incentives to expire will stunt the growth of U.S. companies during a time when American workers need proactive growth strategies the most."

"Policies that threaten the 2003 Tax Relief by raising taxes on new investment could jeopardize worker success and the standard of living of American families. Business Roundtable is committed to advocating public policies that ensure, rather than undermine, vigorous economic growth. Through this growth, American workers can attain the tools they need to compete in the international marketplace."