March 16, 2018

Rep. Robert Phillips at (401) 762-2010

Rep. Phillips introduces legislation to eliminate $10 fee for sales tax permit

STATE HOUSE — Rep. Robert D. Phillips (D-Dist. 51, Woonsocket, Cumberland) has introduced legislation that would eliminate the $10 fee businesses must pay to obtain a sales tax permit.

The legislation (2018-H 7937) would repeal a sentence in the law that requires a $10 fee for those who obtain a license to make sales at retail.

“It seems preposterous that businesses should have to pay $10 annually for the privilege of collecting the state’s sales tax,” said Representative Philips. “I’ve spoken to businesspeople who are my constituents, and this is a fee they universally detest for that reason. This is another step we can take to make Rhode Island more business-friendly.”

The legislation, which is cosponsored by Representatives Brian C. Newberry (R-Dist. 48, North Smithfield, Burrillville), Evan Patrick Shanley (D-Dist. 24, Warwick), Jean Philippe Barros (D-Dist. 59, Pawtucket) and Raymond H. Johnston Jr. (D-Dist. 61, Pawtucket), has been referred to the House Finance Committee.

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