Chesterfield Meals Tax bad for consumers and for small businesses

Retailers once again face additional government regulation as the referendum for a prepared foods tax is presented to voters Nov. 5, 2013. If it passes, consumers may make the decision to dine away from home, or pick up a quick meal at the grocery store. The burden, however, will fall on the retailers to collect an additional tax, which will be mandated to them by the respective boards of supervisors in Chesterfield and Henrico counties. 

Retailers, which include restaurants and all businesses that provide products, goods or services for sale to consumers, are in business for many reasons. Some make the decision to continue a family legacy. Some make the decision to venture on their own to open a small business. And some join larger organizations. All, however, have the common goal to succeed individually, professionally and to contribute effectively to their communities. Retailers are faced with a multitude of regulations in order to conduct business daily, and operating a successful business is more than challenging these days. Our local retailers must implement regulations and mandates they often have no opportunity to influence. The proposed tax on prepared foods is another such mandate.

Implementation of the proposed tax will impact the public at every level. Retailers will face the responsibility to purchase and implement software for their cash-collection systems in order to recognize a food that falls under the meals tax ordinance, as well as operation systems to collect and remit the tax. This will be an additional burden to the retailers. Read the Full Story on Chesterfield Monthly