I urge you to repeal the computer services sales tax enacted during the recent Special Session. 

My fiance has been starting his own business as a web architect, designer, and programmer.  He left his last position as a Vice President and wanted to work for himself in this area with years of experience and contacts.  This new tax is a complete shock and will make it nearly impossible for him to realize the American Small Business dream.  Why is a state that prides itself on biotech, tech, and analytic industries driving these small businesses out of our economy?

This was clearly an ill-advised, back-room scam from some very dishonest legislators.  I hope their names come to light soon and their constituents kick them out during the next election.  They clearly do not respect the basic tenets of democracy or open, honest government.

Our current comptroller is clearly irresponsible, severely lacking in experience, and tells politicians niceties while the economy crumbles.  His office ignored these kinds of tax proposals prior to the special session and talked politics in front of the TV cameras instead.  He pays his friends high salaries and leaves the real workers underpaid and unappreciated.

Governor O'Malley is quickly becoming known in the state, not just in Baltimore City, for cronyism, revenging against honest critics that serve the public well, and ramrodding uninformed taxes through the legislature.

This could have been avoided if the normal processes of government were followed: research of an issue, the economic impact, and public discourse.  Where was the public release of the state budget prior to the special session?  Why haven't our elected officials deigned to speak openly about the cost of projects and where cuts could take place?  Maryland should have moderate tax increases that fairly spread the burden to many people not just select groups.

I have been a Maryland resident and Democratic voter my entire life.  I am ashamed of our current administration and how quickly the recession will hit our state given these irresponsible fiscal policies.

Please support efforts to repeal the expansion of the sales tax to computer services.

Thank you for your consideration