Political Quotes

“Mr. President, I rise to speak on the Marketplace Fairness Act. I applaud Senator Enzi for his many years of work on this legislation, of which I am a cosponsor. This bill rectifies a fundamental unfairness in our current system. Right now, out-of-State Internet sellers, so-called remote sellers, have an advantage over Main Street businesses. Main Street businesses have to collect sales taxes on every transaction. Because remote sellers don't have to charge this tax, they enjoy a price advantage over the mom-and-pop businesses that form the backbone of our communities. This bill would allow States to collect sales taxes on remote sales, thereby leveling the playing field with Main Street businesses. It is important to recognize that this bill does not authorize any new or higher tax, nor does it impose an Internet tax. It simply helps ensure that taxes already owed are paid. I would like to engage Senator Enzi in a colloquy regarding the manner in which the bill is to be implemented. As introduced, the bill would require some businesses to start collecting sales taxes in as little as 90 days. I hope that my colleague from Wyoming would agree that is too short a time period, and I appreciate the fact that he has offered an amendment that includes a 6-month delay. I believe, however, that a delay of at least 1 year is needed to allow businesses time to implement the new systems and software necessary for compliance.…”