On Thursday Utah Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT), ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee, urged caution on a decision about the so-called “Marketplace Fairness Act” in the Senate.  Said the Senator:

“Despite the good intentions of those backing this bill, it just isn’t ready yet. Bringing legislation of such far-reaching consequences to the floor of the Senate when the Finance Committee hasn’t even held a hearing or a markup on it isn’t the way we should be doing business around here.  I’ve heard concerns from Senators on both sides of this issue that we need more time and this bill needs greater scrutiny before moving ahead.  One thing is certain, however, this legislation must be subject to a thorough open debate and amendment process.”

eBay Inc. heartily agrees with the Senator that the Marketplace Fairness Act, in its current form, must be discussed through proper channels to avoid the passing of legislation harmful to small businesses.  We will continue to monitor the situation and fight for the right of small businesses to grow and prosper.