Maryland Communications Tax Reform Commission

Charge of the Commission

The Commission’s charge is to assess the “feasibility and fiscal implications for the State and local governments of a modernized, competitively neutral communications tax and fee system that eliminates disparate treatment of similar communications service providers” and the “efficacy of tax and other incentives to encourage investment in broadband networks and emerging technologies.” The Commission is explicitly directed to include an examination of the following taxes and fees as they relate to consumers and providers of communications services:

  • State and local property taxes;
  • the public service company franchise tax;
  • sales and use taxes;
  • corporate income tax;
  • local communications taxes and fees; and
  • any other communications tax or fee that the Commission determines is relevant.

Additionally the Commission shall:

  • receive data from staff regarding the taxes and fees collected by State and local governments from communications services companies during fiscal year 2012 (as reported by the government entities) as well as taxes and fees remitted by communications companies (as reported by the companies);
  • submit an interim report of its findings and recommendations by December 31, 2012; and
  • submit a final report of its findings and recommendations by June 30, 2013.
Committee Members

Interim Report

January 4, 2013

Information Request Results

May 16, 2013

Member Policy Proposals and Reform Guidelines

Wireless Industry Proposal 1 & 2
Wireless Industry Proposal 3
Local Government Reform Guidelines

Final Report

Report of the Maryland Communications Tax Reform Commission

Upcoming Meetings


Date: The commission met for the last time on June 12, 2013

Time:

Location:

 


Videotaping of Meetings


The Communications Tax Reform Commission has received requests to have its proceedings video recorded. In order for these requests to be accommodated, they must be made no later than 12:00 noon three business days before a meeting (as the Commission typically meets on Wednesdays, the deadline is noon on the prior Friday). Space is limited, so approval will be on a first-come, first-served basis, and cameras must be placed where directed by the Chairmen or commission staff. Disruptions to the commission’s proceedings will not be tolerated.

Please submit your request to CTRC@comp.state.md.us along with an organizational/channel affiliation; a contact name, phone number, and email address; and the names of any individual who will be attending the meeting to record the proceedings or assist with the recording.