I am perusing the latest Book Passage newsletter, salivating over all the great books and author events.
In his editorial, W. Petrocelli brings something important to my attention. I should have been aware, but let this slip through my consciousness.
How could CA have more money for schools, parks and potholes?
"$48,000,000 is the estimated amount of revenue that California loses each year by Amazon.com's refusal to collect and pay sales taxes in this state."
The amount for the decade Amazon has not paid California sales tax the amount is probably well over half-a-billion dollars.
A sales tax taxes those who can afford to buy. Also, those who are avoiding sales tax through purchasing on-line are those who can afford a computer. It is a wee bit unfair. Probably each one of us buys from Amazon and has enjoyed not paying sales tax, but when we think of the cost to our children, parks, and roads, perhaps we can re-think this and speak.
You can contact the members of the California Board of Equalization and take a swing at getting this changed.
Betty Yee is the chair. 916-445-4081. Board.Member D1@boe.ca.gov
Bill Leonard - 916-445-2181. Bill.Leonard@boe.ca.gov
Michelle Steele - 916-445-5713. boardmembersteel@boe.ca.gov
Judy Chu - 916-445-4154
John Chiang - our state controller - 916-445-2636.
