Statement from Florida TaxWatch President and CEO Dominic M. Calabro related to House and Senate Passage of E-Fairness Legislation

Tallahassee, Fla – Florida TaxWatch (FTW) President and CEO Dominic M. Calabro today commended the state’s legislative leaders for taking the historic step of passing E-fairness legislation to protect and serve the taxpayers of Florida.

“As Florida TaxWatch has said for 20 years, the non-collection of sales taxes on sales to in-state customers by remote (out-of-state) sellers has been one of the most significant tax compliance and collection issues facing Florida and other states for many years. Today, Florida joins the 43 other states that have acted on this critical issue, and most importantly, puts the burden of tax collection on the out-of-state sellers, where it belongs. 

“Finally, Florida taxpayers will no longer be inadvertently breaking the law. E-fairness has been a priority tax and fairness issue for Florida TaxWatch for decades, so we’re thankful that the Legislature recognized the value of enacting such legislation to remove the existing taxpayer penalty while helping the state’s economy recover from COVID-19.

“This thoughtful and strategic plan aligns with a recommendation from the recent Florida TaxWatch COVID-19 Taxpayer Task Force and reducing the burden on small businesses that have been struggling to stay afloat during the pandemic will be a key part of a positive outcome on this issue. The use of this revenue to reduce the onerous business rent tax is also a key step towards the eventual elimination of that tax.

“The combination of each of these provisions will certainly have significant and lasting benefits on Florida’s fiscal landscape, leading to a more prosperous future for all.

“Florida TaxWatch is extremely grateful to Rep. Chuck Clemons and Sen. Joe Gruters for championing this important issue again this session. They’re both true public servants who believe that e-fairness legislation can boost the state economy and support their constituents and all Floridians who are getting back on their feet.”