The Death Tax is coming

Words: Stephen BorgIf Congress does not act by December 31, 2012 the Death Tax will hit thousands more family-owned businesses.

As members of the Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) we are asking you to contact your Member of Congress and Senators to urge them to pass legislation addressing the estate tax before the end of the year. Action is urgently needed to prevent the estate tax from saddling thousands of more family-owned businesses with a crippling tax increase.

Current estate tax law that provides for a $5million per person exemption, is indexed for inflation, and provides for spousal portability is set to expire if Congress fails to act. If current law expires, the estate tax would revert back to merely a $1 million exemption not indexed for inflation, with no spousal portability, and a top rate of 55%. The Joint Committee on Taxation estimates that 13 times more families, 20 times more farms, and 9 times more small businesses will be forced to pay the estate tax under this scenario.

While the MCAA has always supported and continues to support the full repeal of the estate tax, it is imperative that our members contact their Member of Congress to express that at a minimum, current law must be extended.

Congress must act by the end of 2012 to prevent this immense tax increase our nation’s small businesses and families and we urge that you contact your Member of Congress immediately to tell them to act on the Estate Tax. This tax increase would have a massive detrimental impact on our struggling economy and family-owned businesses and your voice must be heard.
About: Legislative
Fireside Foundations: Crafting Holiday Fireplaces That Last All Year
December 2025

The fireplace holds a special place in every home, especially during the holidays. It’s where families gather, stories are shared, and the flicker of firelight creates

Jeff Tew
Technical Talks
Read More
Manufactured Stone Veneer Trends for 2026: What’s Next in Stone & Masonry Aesthetics
December 2025

As design trends evolve, stone and masonry continue to stand at the intersection of artistry, performance, and innovation. For 2026, manufactured stone veneer (MSV) is emerging as one of the most dynamic materials in the exterior and interior design space

Sarah Lograsso
MAP Partner
Read More
Construction Robotics Upgrades to Gold in the 2026 Masonry Alliance Program
December 2025

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is delighted to share that Construction Robotics will upgrade their Silver partnership to a Gold partnership in the 2026 Masonry Alliance Program.

Industry News
Read More
Building the Future of the Trades: STABILA’s International Social Media Day and Verified Social Channels Are Inspiring the Next Generation
December 2025

In an era when social media often shapes public perception more than traditional media, even the most time-honored trades are finding new ways to connect, educate, and inspire. STABILA, a global name synonymous with precision measurement tools is trusted

Elsa Bueno
MAP Partner
Read More