Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA-40) applauded the passage of the Internet Tax Freedom Act Amendments Act. The legislation, H.R. 3678 passed in the House today with a vote of 405 to 2 and would extend the current moratorium on Internet taxes an additional four years through 2011. The moratorium was set to expire at the end of 2007. Royce, having voted in favor of this legislation said:

"The Internet has experienced unprecedented growth and development as a result of freedom from oppressive taxation and regulation. I am committed to maintaining this environment so that it can continue to flourish and be available for an even greater number of people."

Royce was a cosponsor of the original Internet Tax Freedom Act which prohibited goods sold over the internet. He is also a cosponsor of the Permanent Internet Tax Freedom Act which would have permanently banned taxation of the Internet. Royce was disappointed the Democrats on the Judiciary committee refused to pass a measure which would have allowed the permanent ban of internet taxes, and said:

"Rather than vote to permanently protect the public's tax-free access to the Internet, the Democrats are willing to ignore the importance of the Internet to the American people and our economy by allowing Americans to face future taxes of up to 20 percent just for accessing the Internet."

Royce understands the Internet is the single most important resource for businesses and consumers today. He will continue to work towards a permanent ban on Internet taxation. The Internet does not need more government interference which may stifle its growth.

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