Columbus, Ohio — Legislation introduced this week by Congressman Kevin Brady (R-Texas) and Congressman Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.) would repeal the federal estate and generation skipping taxes. The Death Tax Repeal Act of 2015 would protect many of HARDI’s family business members from these punitive taxes. “The estate tax continues to place a burden on businesses in our industry and small businesses,” said Talbot Gee, CEO of Heating, Air-conditioning Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI), the trade organization that represents distributors in the HVACR industry. “A significant portion of our members are family businesses, and this tax threatens their companies and all of their employees. “Repealing the estate tax to help preserve these businesses remains a top priority for our organization.” Karen Madonia (ILLCO, Inc.), Co-Chair of HARDI’s Government Affairs Committee, stated, “We are thrilled to see Congressmen Brady and Bishop show bipartisan leadership on an issue that impacts so many businesses and seems to run counter to the entrepreneurial spirit that helps to make our country so great.” Gee added, “It’s no surprise that we are seeing action from Congress on the issue after members have advocated for repeal in past Congressional Fly-ins. This issue will remain important at this year’s fly-in where we will urge Congress to pass this legislation.” HARDI joined 82 organizations in sending a Family Business Coalition letter of support to Congressman Brady and Congressman Bishop for introducing the Death Tax Repeal Act of 2015. HARDI serves as an advisory board member with the Family Business Coalition. Visit www.hardinet.org