CTIA - The Wireless Association[R] Commends Introduction of Cell Tax Fairness Legislation in 2009.

WASHINGTON -- The Wireless Association[R] President and CEO Steve Largent issued the following statement today in response to the introduction of the "Cell Tax Fairness Act of 2009" (H.R.1521) in the U.S. House of Representatives:

"On behalf of the wireless industry and its consumers, I want to thank Representatives Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) and Trent Franks (R-AZ) for their leadership, dedication and continued commitment to defending wireless users across the country from costly and discriminatory taxation. This pro-consumer legislation has gained tremendous bipartisan support, and we are pleased to see Congress moving ahead in the right direction to ease the tax burden on wireless customers.

"Last year, Americans paid nearly $21 billion in federal, state, and local wireless taxes and fees. The Cell Tax Fairness Act will protect consumers from new discriminatory taxes and fees, but preserve existing revenue for states and localities.

"The wireless industry continues to be a critical driver for growth in our nation's economy by providing essential and affordable services that help millions of Americans cut costs and increase productivity and efficiency. We look forward to working with the sponsors and all Members of Congress to see that this important legislation becomes law."

CTIA is the international association for the wireless telecommunications industry, representing carriers, manufacturers and wireless Internet providers.

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