Porter Goss: “I strongly support this modified open rule, which will ensure Members an opportunity to openly and fairly debate H.R.…”

“I strongly support this modified open rule, which will ensure Members an opportunity to openly and fairly debate H.R. 3907. This bill extends the current moratorium on Internet taxes for five years--as recommended by the Independent Advisory Commission on Electronic Commerce. The creation of the Internet has revolutionized communication around the globe and has had a tremendous impact on our daily lives. One of the reasons the Internet has flourished is that the majority in Congress has worked hard to restrain eager regulators, bureaucrats and tax collectors from unnecessary interference in the Internet. There are areas for appropriate government action--child pornography and the like--but, by and large, the appropriate course of action is to let the Internet continue to grow without undue government regulation or intrusion. I am pleased that this bill continues to strike a commonsense balance. Given the lack of consensus on how to deal with imposing sales taxes on commercial transactions over the Internet, H.R. 3709 wisely continues the moratorium on this activity. In addition, the bill continues and strengthens the prohibition on Internet access taxes. Opposition to Internet access charges has been one of the top issues in my mail bag for some time now. Congress must continue to stand firm on this issue, protecting consumers and ensuring the continued growth of the Internet.”