|
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Councilmember David Catania introduced legislation July 13, 2004, prohibiting the transmission of certain commercial e-mail that overwhelms many computers and costs Internet users and businesses billions of dollars every year. The measure imposes significant civil and criminal penalties on any entity that violates unsolicited e-mail ("SPAM") restrictions.
"On any given day, I parse through at least 75 messages that promise me riches, better health and a clean conscience," Councilmember Catania commented. "There are not enough hours in the day to be wasting time going through this trash. What's more, these cyber-marketers track our online movements to understand what else they might advertise." Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates warns, "Spam is so significant a problem that it threatens to undo much of the good that email has achieved." To address this crisis, Councilmember Catania's "District of Columbia Spam Deterrence Act of 2004" prohibits the transmission of e-mail with false header and subject information, bans e-mail identity theft, and requires that unsolicited commercial e-mails offer a no-cost opt-out from their lists. The bill allows people who receive e-mail in violation of the law to seek damages and attorneys fees. Affected individuals may also seek restitution based on how many messages they received, up to $1.5 million. Finally, the legislation allows for forfeiture of property and money obtained through spamming methods and up to 3 years in prison for the most outrageous offenses. Councilmember Catania also introduced the "Cleaner Fuel for Automobiles Amendment Act of 2004" to exempt the purchase of hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles from the sales tax. That legislation is designed to offer a significant incentive to people who buy cars that burn cleaner fuels. Catania asserted, "With more hybrid cars and SUVs entering the market every year, this tax break may encourage residents to spend a bit more knowing they will reduce the level of air pollution we all encounter on a daily basis. In so doing, our susceptibility to serious health consequences will be controlled." Councilmember Catania was joined by Chairman Cropp and Councilmembers Mendelson, Ambrose and Allen on the SPAM piece. Chairman Cropp and Councilmembers Schwartz, Allen, Ambrose, Mendelson and Brazil co-sponsored the hybrid car tax relief bill with Catania. For information on any of these issues, please contact the Office of Councilmember David Catania by calling 202-724-7772 or visiting www.davidcatania.com. |
