Round Table

On the recent Congressional push to keep Internet access services such as Web hosting tax-free

[T]he fledgling industry argument for Internet services in the United States is no longer relevant. Electronic commerce is a mature and important part of the U.S. and international economy. The continued moratorium on taxing charges for Internet access should be evaluated.
Jerry Johnson, Oklahoma Tax Commission vice chairman

To ensure [broadband] benefits continue to reach as many Americans as possible, Congress should reduce any obstacles to Internet access. One way to do that is to prevent federal, state and local taxes that drive up costs for Internet access.
Ted Stevens, Republican Senator for the State of Alaska

One of the best things Congress can do for consumers in 2007 is to make the Internet Tax Moratorium permanent. Competition between providers is making high-speed Internet access more affordable and available than ever. [T]here is no appetite in Congress to open the door to regressive new taxes that would slow this great progress.
Peter Davidson, Verizon Communications Inc. senior vice president for federal government relations

“Governors remain steadfast in their insistence that decisions regarding state and local taxes should remain with state and local officials. We urge Congress to maintain the balance intended by the original moratorium one that encourages the growth of the Internet and respects state sovereignty.
David Quam, National Governors Association director of federal relations

[M]aking the Internet tax moratorium permanent will provide important social and economic benefits for American consumers and businesses. A permanent moratorium will send a strong, pro-investment signal to those entrepreneurs that are looking to improve communications and commerce over the Internet.
Scott Mackey, Kimbell Sherman Ellis LLP economist/partner