The vast majority of Americans have played by the rules.

Millions have sacrificed and saved money so they could own a home, the centerpiece of the American dream.

So why should government make life easier for those who didn't?

Rep. Larry Kissell doesn't think it should. On Thursday Kissell joined 23 other Democrats and 167 Republicans in opposing a house bill that deals with bankruptcy.

H.B. 1106 would let bankruptcy judges modify existing mortgages and extend loan terms.

"In North Carolina around 3 percent of mortgages are seriously delinquent, and I just don't believe it sends the right message to the 97 percent of folks who are tightening their belts and struggling to pay their bills on time in this hard economic situation we are in," Kissell said.

"Banks in California, Nevada and Florida are really feeling it now. We went through this a year ago and nobody was helping us then," Kissell said.

Kissell takes it a step further. He wants to reward people who have been playing by the rules. He wants a $5,000 tax credit for citizens who are doing it right instead of helping those who made bad decisions.

"We have so many Americans who have been paying their mortgage on time and I believe those who have struggled to play by the rules deserve some incentive to continue," Kissell told the Daily Journal. "I am proud I became the first member of Congress to co-sponsor a bill introduced by Republican Congressman Bill Shuster which grants a $5,000 tax credit to citizens who have made their monthly mortgage payments on time."

H.R. 1317 would reward current mortgage holders of a principle residence with the tax credit if the holder provides certification from the lender that they are not delinquent in their payments.

Kissell isn't leaving people who are behind on payments totally out in the cold.

"The misfortune of many Americans suffering from the housing market is troubling, and they will be assisted through this crisis. But then we should also acknowledge and reward the tens of millions more who are managing to stay faithful in their payments.

"I want my constituents to know that if you are in trouble and need help, call my district office in Rockingham and let us help you get the help you need before you consider bankruptcy. As soon as you sense there might be a problem, call us. The sooner they seek help, the more options they will have. Bankruptcy doesn't have to be the answer."

We applaud Kissell for his stand on the mortgage situation and for reaching across the aisle and co-sponsoring a bill drafted by a GOP member.