You are making a difference in getting the legislature to rethink adding the sales tax to custom software development.

Please continue to contact both your state representatives and your state senator to oppose Part 15 of HB 3191.  See attached document for additional information and talking points.  Feel free to attach this document if you send an e-mail to your legislators.

http://apps.leg.wa.gov/DistrictFinder/Default.aspx

In addition, please also contact Representative Ross Hunter and Speaker Frank Chopp.  You can call the legislative hotline at 800-562-6000 or their offices directly.  Rep. Hunter's number is 360-786-7936 and Speaker Chopp's number is 360-786-7920.

Keep the pressure on until the sales tax on custom software is dropped completely.

The legislature has a diffcult job is trying to balance the state budget in the midst of declining tax revenues.  They will be raising taxes in some way, shape or form but they should not be taxing things that will result in loss of jobs, losing business to other states or that are difficult to comply with or confusing to administer.  The sales tax on custom software would do all this, which is why WTIA is opposing it.

There are other problematic provisions in HB 3191, http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=3191 (see substitute bill or the House Bill Report), such as a tax on investment earnings.  This could drive VC funds to other states.  The tax avoidance section will result in substantial disputes with the Dept. of Revenue.

Let's make sure our lawmakers understand the value of the state's tech industry--please keep the pressure on to drop the sales tax on custom software.