Missouri Chamber works to protect businesses from tax grab

The Missouri Chamber was pleased with Senate passage of House Bill 1504, legislation that was initially filed to address parks and recreational taxes, but was amended with additional protections for Missouri employers. The legislation was given final approval this week by the Missouri Senate and is now on its way to the governor’s desk for signature.

During floor debate in the Senate, an amendment the Missouri Chamber proposed was approved. The amendment, offered by Sen. Wasson, would limit the reach of municipalities through business license taxes. Under the law, municipalities must adhere to the same standards as the state when it comes to audits and penalties and interest on back taxes.

“We have heard from some businesses that had been fined up to 15 times the state rate,” said Tracy King, Missouri Chamber vice president of governmental affairs. “We think that is excessive and should be stopped.”

Also added to the bill is a provision that would extend the state sales and use tax on jet fuel that is deposited in the Missouri Aviation Trust Fund until 2023.

The jet fuel sales tax is the primary funding source for the Aviation Trust Fund that was established in 1998. That fund has provided in the last six years alone more than $22 million for 57 different airport projects around the state.

For more information on tax issues, contact Tracy King, Missouri Chamber vice president of governmental affairs, at tking@mochamber.com, or by phone at 573-634-3511.