Texas sales tax is coming

[n175h]

I got wind today that HB 119 was filed by Yvonne Davis of Dallas in the Texas House which repeals the exemption of personal services provided by the use of a coin operated machine. The repealed statute is section 151.335 of the Texas Tax Code.

If any of you Texas readers want to voice your opinion to Yvonne, her address is:
Room CAP G.S. 06
Box 2910
Austin TX 78768
512-463-0598
fax 512-463-2297

This is the most recent data on the bill I could find. I think, but not sure, that it may have made it through the ways and means committee. After lots of reasearch on the Legi website, I still don't know. The total proposal will put the top sales tax at 9.25 +/- percent on your gross sales. I bet this will put an end to the 50 cent toploader stores.

In my research I found it interesting that the exemption always applied to coin op machines. No where could I find "card operated" machines exempted. You Texas guys with card stores could conceivably be back billed for sales tax on your past receipts. Ouch!! That could hurt. Hope the state comptroller doesn't force the issue. I hope I'm wrong in the assumption.

It's amazing that politicians could tax our customers, many of whom live below the poverty line. Oh, and get this. In my research I found that contracted lawn care (Sec 151.34) will remain exempt. People in Dallas with $1mill houses and large estates, Yvonne is taking care of you.

David

[pete f]

Isn;t therre a Dallas STAR, or Dallas POST you could send this to??
Sound like a rip, contact the local newschannel " " is on your side.

[JBTcajun]

Isn't there a local news program that does consumer advocate work? In New Orleans it is called 6 on you're side. This it the type of story they love. Help the little guy. If she doesn't advertise on that station during campaigns you have a good chance. In Mississippi it is interesting to see just what services are tax exempt and witch are not.

[mjwalsh]

David,

I am not from your state but I am offended when the proponents of those gross instead of net tax bills tell about how great it is working out in all the states that proceeded with it. If they have a interim tax study a more ideal tax model should be presented. We in North Dakota have a very fair income tax which is miniscule compared to the Federal. The 3 legged stool is more stable is an argument too! Income-Property-Sales Tax combination. Sales Tax being the most regressive out of all three of them. By regressive it disproportionately hurts lower income people much worse.

The trade press need to make public statements opposing the gross tax vs the more reasonable net taxes.

Mike Walsh from the capitol city of North Dakota.