Phone tax would impede progress

This is in response to a recent story talking about the state of Illinois' technology industry ("Birck says state holds back tech industry").

I certainly agree that there are challenges to doing business here in Illinois and that we must continue to promote more pro-business policies that encourage new investment and innovation. Despite these challenges, AT&T has always made it a top priority to develop the cutting-edge technology that helps us better serve our customers, while creating more jobs. That is only going to continue thanks to Gov. Blagojevich, the General Assembly and Attorney General Madigan's support of the Cable and Video Competition Act, which is an important victory for Illinois consumers and the Illinois economy.

This is going to finally give customers throughout the state more video choices, improved service and better prices, while spurring hundreds of millions of dollars in investment and creating good, new Illinois jobs. A diverse, bipartisan coalition of consumer, business and labor organizations understood what was at stake and came together this spring in Springfield to make this a reality.

Our customers are always AT&T's top priority, and this law is going help us deliver unmatched video service using breakthrough technology.

By putting the consumer first, we are also ensuring better jobs for working families. What we don't need, and what will stifle innovation, is Cook County's proposed $48-a-year tax on every phone line and cell phone.

This unfair and regressive tax would limit new technology purchases at a time when having that access is vital and could stop high-tech companies from making the necessary infrastructure investments that will help Illinois remain competitive in the global economy.

Paul La Schiazza

AT&T Illinois President

Chicago