Most Americans imagine miles of confusing red tape at the mention of complex tax laws and leveraged buyouts, but NIU Associate Law Professor Daniel Schneider specializes in the complex balance between the two.

Schneider, who teaches courses in federal income tax, corporate tax, partnership tax, business planning and tax policy, is co-author of a book titled “Federal Tax Aspects of Corporate Reorganizations.” His work was published in December 1988.

Due to falling corporate equity and increased corporate borrowing, leveraged buyouts are becoming an increasingly common occurrence in American business. Nine House and Senate committees are searching for ways to ease these sudden transitions by changes in federal tax laws, but Schneider said progress is slow and cautious.

Current laws now tax corporations twice; once when they earn a profit, and again when they pay dividends to shareholders.

“Some takeovers are beneficial for business and the economy because they force companies to economize and become stronger and more efficient,” Schneider said.

However, Schneider also agrees that some legislative restrictions are needed, but must be used with discretion, saying “…the problem with wholesale restrictions is that such restrictions might artificially alter a fundamental dimension of a healthy economy.”

Schneider’s educational background includes degrees from the University of Cincinnati College of Law and the New York University School of Law.