Here's an example of stifling growth.  I'm thinking of using retained earnings to open a business with 2 other partners, a franchise.   After dividing up any profits and considering the risk, I might make some money.  However,  it sounds like if I make too much money, like in the $150K per year neighborhood, then I'll be taxed a lot and will be forced to spend instead of save for further investment, like another franchise.  Well forget that idea, I'm not taking on any risk until these poorly thought out changes are fixed or cancelled.  There goes my business idea, there goes potential jobs, etc.  I'll just keep my money until the environment is more welcoming.