More coverage here of dips in sales tax revenue in many Arkansas cities. Some local officials think it’s because of the so-called “streamlined sales tax” legislation that directs taxes to the point of sale, not the location of the store that made a sale. Complaining here is the little town of Bethel Heights.

It’s not yet clear what all explains the sales tax figures. But the new law was meant to pave the way for federal legislation aimed at capturing local sales taxes from Internet sales. In the long run, that will help the local governments. I couldn’t help but note this passage about the expected federal legislation:

Advertisement

Sen. Blanch Lincoln, D-Ark., a member of the Senate Finance Committee, said last week she likes the proposal, as long it is fair to local businesses and Internet vendors.

“We’ve had a hearing on the finance committee, we even had a hometown company testify — Wal-Mart,” Lincoln said. “I think we’re very capable of doing this if it levels the playing field. It makes good sense to me.”

Advertisement

Be a part of something bigger

As a reader of the Arkansas Times, you know we’re dedicated to bringing you tough, determined, and feisty journalism that holds the powerful accountable. For 50 years, we've been fighting the good fight in Little Rock and beyond – with your support, we can do even more. By becoming a subscriber or donating as little as $1 to our efforts, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers to expand our coverage and continue to bring important stories to light. With over 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts, it's clear that our readers value our great journalism. Join us in the fight for truth.

Previous article Open line Next article A modest proposal