Spanish American War tax finally sunsetted....
May 25, 2006
Mises Blog
Phone Tax Finally Sunsetted...
After 108 YearsTim Swanson
Several months ago Ted Roberts wrote an article discussing the tax on international phone calls that was originally levied to finance the Spanish-American War back in 1898. Today, MSNBC and others are reporting that effective July 31, this tax will finally disappear. In addition, consumers can file for a refund on this tax from March 2003 through the present - this is expected to be approximately $13 billion when the dust settles.
While much can be said on the topic of coerced philanthropy, this should serve as a clear illustration of how when the State gains the authority to do something, it is reticent to relinquish the authority. One down, thousands more to go.
Mises Blog
Phone Tax Finally Sunsetted...
After 108 YearsTim Swanson
Several months ago Ted Roberts wrote an article discussing the tax on international phone calls that was originally levied to finance the Spanish-American War back in 1898. Today, MSNBC and others are reporting that effective July 31, this tax will finally disappear. In addition, consumers can file for a refund on this tax from March 2003 through the present - this is expected to be approximately $13 billion when the dust settles.
While much can be said on the topic of coerced philanthropy, this should serve as a clear illustration of how when the State gains the authority to do something, it is reticent to relinquish the authority. One down, thousands more to go.
posted by Local Ale | 12:37 PM
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