Senate unanimous for tax streamlining bill

Sen. Mike Jorgenson, R-Hayden Lake, told the Senate today that Idaho needs to participate in a multi-state compact on streamlining sales taxes if it hopes to help shape eventual federal legislation to tax Internet sales. His bill, SB 1295, passed the Senate unanimously today, though Jorgenson acknowledged the House Revenue and Taxation Committee has rejected the move in the past, citing sovereignty concerns. Sen. Joe Stegner, R-Lewiston, said, “This is about fairness to the businesses that exist and invest in our communities, and are being competed with on an unfair basis. … We are jeopardizing every day the existence of these small businesses.” Stegner said an eventual move to tax Internet sales would “level the playing field.” Senate Tax Chairman Brent Hill, R-Rexburg, noted that the bill wouldn’t impose any tax. “If we want to have a say, we’ve got to participate,” he said. After the 34-0 Senate vote, the bill now moves to the House committee.