Over the last couple of years we have (hopefully) learned several things. Among the lessons we should have learned, is the need to keep an eye on the budget process in each state. It is not only the regular sessions and the usual bill process that needs to be monitored. Bills are constantly merged and amended. In some cases, bills are combined into one large budget bill or an omnibus tax bill. This type of legislation can be extremely difficult to read and follow. Not only can the bills be a couple of hundred pages long, sessions may occur behind closed doors or on an expedited basis. In addition, it can be almost impossible to determine the exact status of any amendment or provision; legislative websites are not always updated in real-time.
The other day I wrote about the Virginia budget (Bill number HB 30 / SB 30); there is an amendment for an Internet sales tax. I received several follow up emails asking me to show exactly where in the budget the Internet sales tax provision was. You see, what I did was simply link to the Virginia Budget. It seems most of my readers were unable to find the provision, so here it is – Internet Sales Tax Amendment in Virginia Budget
The current status is that this is “Committee Approved” and the Budget Bill is not yet complete.
The Budget process for any state is complex, you never know what the final version is until it is signed by the Governor. In my opinion, if you are an Affiliate in Virginia, it is much too early to relax.
Not everyone will agree of course, some may believe or hope that we are safe. I try to be objective on this and when in doubt, it is better to be overly cautious. Perhaps my view is pessimistic, but I have the NY Affiliate experience behind me. A false sense of security can mean greater impact because of being unprepared. In my opinion, being prepared and keeping guard up is best.
My suggestion to everyone is to use many different avenues to get information. Read multiple opinions in order to get more balanced information and then do your own research or retain counsel. Take control of your own business and do not follow blindly.
Hopefully, over the last two years, Affiliates have learned the most valuable lesson – Prepare and Diversify.
