Apr. 6, 2011: Should the Mass. sales tax apply online?

Bink commented on Greater Boston on 04.07.11
Im unclear how this law would benefit small retailers in MA. People purchase via the internet to take advantage of convenience and often dramatically lower prices before tax is figured in. Notice that the bill is being pushed by the likes of Walmart and Best Buy. Does that strike anyone as odd? Thats because these retailers like so many big box stores have a very strong presence in NH, and saw huge spikes in business there after MA increased the sales tax to 6.25. They know that consumers seeking to avoid tax will simply bring their business to NH a winwin situation for big retailers they get increased business, but without the bother of having to collect that pesky sales tax. This bill is a very illconceived idea. I hope lawmakers come to their senses and vote it down, rather than just passing it through as a kneejerk reaction to the current economic climate. Small retailers do need our help, and the state needs revenue, but this is not the solution!