(2003-11-18) -- The Massachusetts Supreme Court today ruled that so-called "consensual commerce relations" are protected under the same privacy rights granted to people who get abortions or engage in consensual same-sex sodomy or homosexual civil unions.

The high court immediately nullified the Commonwealth's 5 percent sales tax, and the 5.3 percent income tax since both of those levies interfere with citizens' rights to do as they please in the privacy of their homes and businesses. The decision also grants private businesses the same rights enjoyed by non-profit agencies.

"We conclude that people have a right to earn and spend their own money, and to be protected from confiscatory discrimination by the state as they engage in consensual commerce relations," the justices wrote. "Our Massachusetts constitution calls for ensuring the 'safety, prosperity and happiness' of our citizens. To do that, we must get the hand of the Commonwealth out of the pockets of the people."