Georgia Christian Coalition Leader Says, "Need For Revenue Only Right Reason for Tax Increases- Rejects Cigarette Tax

Atlanta (March 15, 2010) - The only justification for sales or use taxes is the exclusive need for government revenue and not to control lifestyle, health or the environment and apply it only to voluntary purchases. This is the message lobby group Georgia Christian Coalition sent legislators today and is a break from the organization's past objection to virtually any tax increase. The action was sparked by the controversy over a 300% proposed increase in Georgia's penalty tax on cigarette purchases to $1.00 per pack with no revenue going to local governments which stand to lose local tax on what the additional dollar cannot buy. 

Some of those proposing the increase cite health as a reason for the tax and claim the tax would lower demand for the product especially among teens. "If you think money has any real meaning to teens," GCC president Jerry Luquire observes, "then you haven't checked their spending on cell phones, texting, video games, energy drinks and car accessories. A former smoker, he said, "A nicotine addict is going to have his fix and a nickel a cigarette is simply going to mean he has less money to spend on other things that also have taxes on them." He said he quit smoking December 25, 1982.

As to health claims he observed, "With those wanting to tax everything that tastes good in the name of helping your health, there is no end to the harassment they will bring. If so called unhealthy foods were killing you, there would be no old, fat people crowding buffets," Luquire added.

Recognizing a real need in the Georgia budget, GCC is asking for consideration to a sales tax on two voluntary purchases where he said desire for the service overcomes a slight cost increase: a sales tax on lottery income now and an impact study on entertainment sales tax for the future. "Iowa has proven a tax does not decrease lottery sales; it will bring a half billion dollars to the state general fund and local governments a year and can be in force by July. The jury is still out on what a quarter or so tax per movie or event would do to entertainment sales," he claimed. CITY, STATE - Date - Sending a press announcement via email is a great way for you to increase your visibility. Your email could include the announcement of a new product/service, employee or even recognize you for a prestigious award. Use this paragraph to explain the facts such as who, what, where and when.