David M. Marx - Page 8




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          when computing AMT, because section 56(b)(1)(F) provides that the           
          section 68 limitation does not apply when determining the amount            
          of AMTI.  However, petitioner’s argument is based on his narrow             
          interpretation of the Code.  Further, petitioner misunderstands             
          the application of section 56(b)(1)(F) and the operation of                 
          section 56(b) as a whole.                                                   
               When interpreting statutes, the function of courts is to               
          construe the language of the statute to give effect to the intent           
          of Congress.  Cramer v. Commissioner, 101 T.C. 225, 247 (1993),             
          affd. 64 F.3d 1406 (9th Cir. 1995).  Where possible, the words of           
          the statutes should be interpreted in their ordinary everyday               
          sense.  Crane v. Commissioner, 331 U.S. 1, 6 (1947).  A statute             
          is to be construed so as to give each of its provisions full                
          effect and not to render parts of the statute inoperative or                
          superfluous.  Duke v. Univ. of Tex., 663 F.2d 522, 526 (5th Cir.            
          1981).                                                                      
               Accordingly, section 56(b) should be read in its entirety,             
          as part of a single statutory scheme, and not so as to render               
          part of the statute inoperative.  Section 56(b), in pertinent               
          part, provides as follows:                                                  
               SEC. 56(b). Adjustments Applicable to Individuals.–-                   
               In determining the amount of the alternative minimum                   
               taxable income of any taxpayer (other than a                           
               corporation), the following treatment shall apply (in                  
               lieu of the treatment applicable for purposes of                       
               computing the regular tax):                                            
                    (1) Limitation on deductions.--                                   





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