Protesting the ‘Tan Tax’
On Monday, protesters stood outside in Chelsea, New York to fight against the excise tax on tanning services or “Tan Tax”. James Oliver, owner of Beach Bum Tanning, feels the tax is hurting his business.
“This tax is affecting the industry nationwide,” Oliver said. “I will have to close two to three more stores this year. I just can’t keep them open.”
His employees are also worried that they risk losing their jobs due to the tax.
Ali Gigliotti, 18, said the tan tax is also hurting young people who work at the salons. “I’m afraid to lose my job,” said Gigliotti, who works at Beach Bum Tanning in Chelsea. “Business is slow.”
The “Tan Tax” has been in effect since July 1st and is part of the Healthcare Reform Bill signed into law by President Obama. The due date for the first payment of the tax is November 1st, one day before Election Day in the US.
