AFP-Ohio Slams GOP Proposal to Tax Online Travel Agents

Mar 26, 2018 by AFP

Greenspan bill would slap Ohioans with new tax to use popular travel websites

Grassroots activists come out swinging against new anti-consumer tax

COLUMBUS, OH – Americans for Prosperity-Ohio today announced its strong opposition to House Bill 571, a measure authored by State Representative Dave Greenspan (R-Westlake) to institute a new tax on Online Travel Agents (OTA). The Greenspan bill would force anyone booking hotel rooms to pay a new tax for using popular websites such as Expedia.com, Priceline.com, Travelocity.com, and Hotels.com to make their travel arrangements.

Americans for Prosperity-Ohio State Director Micah Derry made the following statement:

“At a time when Ohioans are beginning to feel the benefits of federal tax reform, the last thing they need is to pay a new tax when they book their next family vacation or business trip online. It is unnecessary and will put Ohio’s tourism economy at a serious disadvantage. The new ‘Greenspan Tax’ is a misguided solution in search of a problem based on the lie that online travel sites are getting a free lunch. This money grab has been rejected by the legislature before and the Greenspan Tax will hit Ohio families as they plan their in-state summer vacations.”

AUDIO of Micah’s Statement Available HERE