All jurisdictions are struggling under today’s challenging economic times, and an examination of additional funding sources is prudent.
However, the proposed tax on advertising should receive a full evaluation before the DC City Council takes any action. Here are important issues for the Council to consider: A new tax on advertising would create a negative economic impact on local publications and news outlets like the Washington Blade.
Diminishing the viability of these forms of journalism could erode accountability of government, police, and others in authority at a time when it is critically needed.
A new tax on advertising would increase expenses of small businesses struggling to survive the COVID-19 pandemic, and very likely impact