CEA Applauds House Introduction of the Business Activity Tax Simplification Act (BATSA)

February 11, 2008; 01:35 AM

ARLINGTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)^® applauds the introduction of the Business Activity Tax Simplification Act (BATSA) by Representatives Rick Boucher (D-VA) and Bob Goodlatte (R-VA). BATSA ensures that a state should not be able to tax a business unless the business has some physical presence within the state.

“No taxation without representation is a basic American principle. Congress has a constitutional responsibility to ensure that interstate commerce is not harmed by unfair or burdensome taxation,” said Michael Petricone, senior vice president, Government Affairs, CEA. “This developing patchwork of state levies on non-resident firms creates a chilling effect that inhibits commerce and innovation. The burden falls heaviest on small businesses that do not have the resources to contest these ill-founded taxes.”

Last year, the United States Senate introduced an identical version of the BATSA legislation, led by the efforts of Senators Charles Schumer (D-NY) and Mike Crapo (R-ID).

“The passage of this bill is critical for American innovators and entrepreneurs,” continued Petricone. “We commend Congressmen Boucher and Goodlatte for introducing this important legislation, and we urge other members to give it their bipartisan support.”

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $161 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,200 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES – Where Entertainment, Technology and Business Converge. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA’s industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org.