Seriously. I really mean it; let's do means testing of government benefits.
But not the ones that are usually mentioned in the context of means testing. Let's do this for other government benefits.
Let's start with tax deductions: If your income puts you in the top 10% of the US, or you have a portfolio that makes you secure for life, then you get no deductions beyond the standard individual or family deduction. None. You make too much to qualify for such benefits.
Heck, throw any loopholes or deferring of taxes into that same category.
R's think we should stop federal employees from getting subsidized health insurance. I say sure, if the employee fails the means test. So only wealthy members of congress would be effected.
Extend it to corporations - big oil gets major breaks on taxes and on the royalties due for drawing oil from public lands. They do NOT pass this on to the rest of us as savings at the pump, they just use it to add to the bottom line. Means test failed. Own a business? Making a bundle? Why should you get any breaks?
Want to drive on the freeway? Got plenty of cash? Why should you get a free ride? You pay tolls.
Do you profit from public information? Do you use data from research that was publicly funded in some way? Guess what, if you're doing really well at it then you're going to be paying for that information.
Want the local police to respond when you think someone's broken into your home? If it's a McMansion then you'll pay a surcharge. Fire - same thing. You failed the means test for public benefits.
Where else should we means test?