The CTIA Believes Wireless is a Vital Component to the lives of American Consumers

While access to wireless broadband and towers may have been a convenience just a few years ago, the CTIA—The Wireless Association believes that it is now a vital component in the lives of American consumers and businesses. 

This statement came as a response to Representatives Bob Goodlatte (R-VA-7) and Anna Eshoo (D-CA-18) introducing the companion bill, the Permanent Internet Tax Freedom Act, to the Senate’s Internet Tax Freedom Forever Act of 2013.

The Internet Tax Freedom Act was originally signed into law in 1998 by President Bill Clinton. This law prohibits federal, state and local governments from taxing Internet access and imposing Internet-only taxes. This law has been extended three times by Congress since its original enactment.

“Chairman Goodlatte and Representative Eshoo have been champions for the digital economy since the Internet Tax Freedom Act was first enacted fifteen years ago. The Permanent Internet Freedom Act permanently extends the moratorium on Internet access taxes and fees and provides a tax certainty that will continue to foster American technological innovation, growth and leadership in electronic commerce,” the CTIA’s press release explained.

The current moratorium on Internet taxes was extended until November 1, 2014 by President George W. Bush in 2007. CTIA-The Wireless Association is an international organization representing the wireless communications industry. Membership in the association includes wireless carriers and their suppliers, as well as providers and manufacturers of wireless data services and products. CTIA advocates on behalf of its members at all levels of government. 

“Affordable wireless broadband is no longer just a modern convenience, but a vital component in the lives of American consumers and businesses. From education to healthcare to commerce, a reasonable and permanent tax structure that guarantees affordable access to the Internet and the incredible services it provides is vital for consumers and continued innovation,” the CTIA explained.