IT Industry Supports Stimulus But Requests Revisions

President Barack Obama and Congress are drawing some praise from IT insiders for including IT as an integral part of their plans to stimulate the economy, but at least one group is pushing for more.CompTIA said it supports plans to "green" America and its technology, promote health information technology, expand broadband access and capacity, and reduce tax burdens. However, the group wants more tax deductions for equipment, better IT training, and more support for small companies.

It also opposes the "Buy America" provisions included in the plan. CompTIA said the provisions encouraging purchases of American-made products contain more costs than benefits

"They run contrary to the manner in which the IT industry creates its offerings, the lion's share of which see development by small IT firms that use globally sourced components and services, and also access those growing international markets for sales," the group said in a statement. "We believe that, though well-meaning, pernicious protectionism will result, ultimately shutting out U.S. companies from important foreign markets, and driving up costs for U.S. consumers. "

CompTIA also wants the $250,000 allowance, for the purchase of equipment and IT systems, as well as similar incentives, to be made permanent, instead of lapsing next year. Making the allowance permanent now would allow businesses to plan for taxes with more certainty and allow businesses to update IT without hesitation.

While stimulus plans recognize the importance of technology job training, CompTIA said that state and federal programs should be updated. Finally, the group wants procurement opportunities through local, state, and federal government to be more accessible for small businesses.

CompTIA made an excellent point by saying: "Congress may not have such an opportunity in the future; they have to get this package right, now."