Community Corner

Legislature Considers Taxing Downloads

Downloading books, movies, games, apps and songs might get a little more expensive.

 

The Connecticut Legislature is considering a new way to boost revenues: putting a tax on paid downloads. If the proposal passes, e-Books, songs on iTunes and downloadable video games would be subject to a 6.35 percent sales tax.

According to NBC Connecticut, “Supporters say the bill would level the playing field for brick-and-mortar retailers in the state who are already required to charge Connecticut sales tax to consumers who purchase these products in their stores.”

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The Entertainment Consumers Association, a lobbying group for the video game industry, has come out against the bill and is urging people to contact lawmakers to oppose it.

“Connecticut gamers, take a moment to tell your representative not to tax our hobby! Senate Bill 400 would implement a tax on digital downloads and would make it more expensive to enjoy video games,” wrote the group on its web site.

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“Let the Connecticut legislature know that this is not the right way to aid an economic recovery, and not the way to represent their constituents.”


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