The drive to have online sellers charge sales tax is gathering steam, according to a statement from Jewelers of America.

“Momentum on sales tax fairness has never been stronger, with bills in the Senate and House that have strong bipartisan support,” said an organization statement. “Congressional supporters of the legislation are expected to push for passage during the lame-duck session.”

JA said it encourages everyone in the jewelry business to take advantage of its online Legislative Action Center, where they can contact representatives about issues such as sales tax fairness, protection of the LIFO accounting method, the estate tax, and other legislative issues that could affect their businesses.

“The elections are over, but now the real work begins,” said associate director of public affairs Susan Thea Posnock in a statement. “Jewelers of America will continue to advocate for jewelry businesses, but jewelers also have to speak up.”

Added Jewelers of America president and CEO Matthew A. Runci: “The growing influence of the jewelry industry in D.C. is critical, as Congress and the President are faced with serious challenges that could affect jewelry businesses and the overall economy in the days and months ahead.”

This election cycle, the Jewelers of America Political Action Committee, or JAPAC, contributed to the campaigns of 18 legislators from both parties who won on Nov. 6.

JCK