There is quite a bit of flap going on about the Democratic supported bill to tax internet sales (HR 5660). So here is my two cents. For the purposes of full disclosure, I am an internet seller so you probably already now that I am opposed to this bill.
Here is a list of its sponsors and cosponsors.
From what I can tell the nutshell version from those who support the bill is that internet sellers have an unfair advantage over brick and mortar store fronts due to the fact that one has to collect and remit state and local sales tax. Let's not argue that point even though we could.
The nutshell version for those opposed to the proposition is that it is far too complicated and burdensome to handle. (brick and mortar stores remit sales tax to their local governments, city, county and state in most cases) Internet seller would be required to remit the same taxes for every jurisdiction that they sell to. Once again we will just accept this and not argue the point.
My thoughts are these. Whether you are for or against this proposition should not be based on either of the reasons noted above. Simply consider the following:
Ask yourself
1) Should the government be able to tax anything it wants to?
2) Currently Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire and Oregon do not have a sales tax. Should they be forced to enact a sales tax to make it "fair" to the other 46 states?
3) Are brick and mortar stores restricted from taking advantage of internet sales?
4) Do you think that the government spends your tax dollars wisely and frugally?
Depending on how you feel about these questions should be the determining factor in whether or not you support giving the government more of your money.
