Delaware County Review

State Representative Beth Lear (R-Galena) has introduced House Bill 424, a legislative initiative aimed at addressing the issue of double taxation on food delivery applications such as Instacart and Uber Eats. The bill seeks to simplify the taxation process and eliminate the excess taxes being paid by these companies.

In a statement, Lear emphasized the need for updating the tax system in response to the evolving economy. She stated, "As the economy continues to evolve, we need to update our tax system." Lear highlighted that the collaboration with Senator Tim Schaffer and discussions with the Ohio Department of Taxation and affected businesses led to the development of House Bill 424. She noted, "With the help of Senator Tim Schaffer, we have reviewed the current law, discussed potential improvements with the Ohio Department of Taxation and a business that has been impacted, and together crafted House Bill 424."

The proposed legislation aims to allow companies to request a waiver from the Tax Commissioner to ensure that sales taxes are paid only once for the appropriate amount of sales. This change would result in delivery service companies no longer collecting sales tax on purchased goods, shifting the responsibility to retailers. The intended outcome is a more streamlined and efficient taxation process for all parties involved.

House Bill 424 is currently awaiting committee assignment as it progresses through the legislative process.