WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) sent a clear message to the world: we will not tax American exceptionalism. Fischbach announced the introduction of the Tax Exemption for American Medalists (TEAM USA) Act, legislation designed to ensure that when our athletes dominate the global stage, the IRS does not get to treat their excellence as a taxable offense.
“America is a nation built on the pursuit of greatness, and our Olympians and Paralympians are the ultimate proof of that spirit,” said Congresswoman Fischbach. “When our athletes win, the whole country wins with them. We should be doing everything in our power to celebrate these victories. We are proud of these Americans, we are proud to be American, and we should never get tired of seeing our flag at the top of the mast.”
The TEAM USA Act eliminates the “Victory Tax” for all American medalists, ensuring that the rewards of gold, silver, and bronze remain exactly what they are: symbols of national glory.
“It is time we stop taxing greatness. We are proud of these men and women, and we are proud to be a country that reaches for the top,” Fischbach continued. “My bill is simple: If you win for America, you keep your winnings. We are not a nation that settles for participation trophies, and we should not be a nation that taxes winners.”
“America’s Olympians exemplify the spirit and greatness of our Nation. When our Olympians bring home the gold, they shouldn’t be punished with a burdensome tax bill, as well. The TEAM USA Act rewards the hard work, success, and the American Dream,” said Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), Chairman of the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Tax.
To ensure the champions of the 2026 Winter Games are honored under this new standard of excellence, the TEAM USA Act is retroactive to January 1, 2026. This legislation reaffirms that in the United States, we reward our best.
