ICMA, along with the Big 7 national associations representing cities, counties, governors, and state legislators, released a letter to Congressional leaders on November 18, urging Congress to combine the Marketplace Fairness Act (MFA) with a temporary extension of the Internet Tax Freedom Act (ITFA) this year.

“The time has come for Congress to stop stalling and join with state and local officials to promote the continued growth of electronic commerce, ensure fair competition, and preserve state and local authority,” they wrote.

“We are gravely disappointed by reports that Congress is willing to vote on a permanent extension of ITFA, but is not willing to even consider MFA. MFA would level the playing field between online and Main Street retailers so that competition, not a tax loophole, determines who succeeds in the marketplace.”

ICMA urges members to contact their Congressional representatives to press them to take action now. The MFA passed the Senate last year with broad bipartisan support. It has since stalled in the House.