The Senate has voted against creating a value-added tax, or VAT, in the U.S.

VAT is a type of national sales tax and it is used throughout Europe.

The Senate voted 85 against the idea, leaving only 13 in favor. It is a non-binding vote, but does officially put the Senate on record opposing the idea.

"Instead of offering proposals to reform the system and ease the burden on our citizens, some are suggesting creative ways to impose new taxes on Americans and even further complicate our tax code," Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., said. "While there is no official proposal to impose the VAT, I think it is necessary for my colleagues to be on record on this onerous new tax."

This comes just weeks before President Barack Obama's debt commission begins meeting. They are expected to create a plan to cut Washington's deficits.

Six senators who voted against the VAT are on that commission. The VAT has been widely discussed as one option to raise more money for Washington.

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