http://news.com.com/2010-1071-960048.html?tag=politech
Hands off of Net shopping
By Declan McCullagh
September 30, 2002, 6:45 AM PT
WASHINGTON--Americans shopping on the Internet have an unlikely friend
who is beginning to fight for lower prices on their behalf: Uncle Sam.
It's easy to beat up on the federal government, and many criticisms
are justified. But occasionally, once every few decades or so, the
federal government does something worthwhile. And striving toward
cheaper products and more efficient online markets is entirely
praiseworthy.
In this case, the federal government is fighting against tax-happy
state legislators. The latter are becoming increasingly worried about
their residents buying cheaper products over the Internet--and not
paying state sales taxes or funneling purchases through local
campaign-contributing businesses. Prohibitions vary, but products that
can't be legally purchased online in some states include cars, fine
wine, funeral caskets--and even contact lenses.
Such prohibitions are just nuts. Local businesses should not have the
right to prohibit customers from shopping online for better deals.
Protectionist state politicos shouldn't interfere with the natural
evolution of the free market, which brings additional choices, lower
prices and far more competition.
[...]
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