Press Release
MyWireless.org Launches Statewide Media Effort To Roll Back Gross Receipts Tax on Wireless ServicesPennsylvania Cell Phone Users Urged To Get Involved
Washington, D.C. - MyWireless.org, a new consumer advocacy organization, has launched a statewide media effort to encourage Pennsylvania’s more than 6 million wireless consumers to actively support the repeal of the Gross Receipts Tax on wireless service.
“6 million Pennsylvanians are unfairly double-taxed on their cell phone service -- and each has a personal stake in repealing the Gross Receipts Tax on wireless,” said Kimberly Kuo, Executive Director of MyWireless.org. “This new media campaign simply provides cell phone users with the facts about how they are being over and unfairly double taxed, and helps them make their voices heard -- to Governor Rendell and to state legislators -- urging them to roll back this unfair and unnecessary tax.
Pennsylvania wireless users already pay a 6% state sales tax on their wireless services, plus other federal and local taxes and fees. In December 2003, the Gross Receipts Tax added another 5% tax on the same wireless service.
State Senator Robert Wonderling and State Representative Mario Scavello are now sponsoring bills to repeal Pennsylvania’s Gross Receipts Tax on wireless service, and over 120 of their colleagues have joined in their effort.
“The state Gross Receipts Tax nearly doubles the tax rate on wireless service and threatens to put the benefits of wireless safety, security, and productivity out of reach for too many,” added Kuo. “We want state legislators and Governor Rendell to hear loud and clear from consumers that enough is enough. It’s time to roll back the Gross Receipts Tax on wireless.”
Cell phone users in Pennsylvania and nationwide are encouraged to visit www.MyWireless.org -- a dynamic, interactive Web site that allows wireless users to learn more about wireless issues in Pennsylvania and nationally, to voice their support or opposition to proposed wireless taxes and regulations by directly contacting policymakers, to read about the latest wireless developments, and to help promote the innovation, affordability, and accessibility of wireless services.