Sneaker tax? Illinois considers a 25-cent charge

[The Straight Story]

SPRINGFIELD— The cost of a new pair of basketball shoes could jump by 25 cents under a proposal floated this week by an Illinois lawmaker.

State Rep. Will Davis, D-Hazel Crest, wants to create a new tax that would generate an estimated $3 million annually for a youth job preparation program. He said the added cost would likely go unnoticed by most consumers, while helping finance a program for kids during tight budget times.

“Everywhere, funding is challenged,”Davis said. “I see it as a uniquely creative way of helping youth.”

Under the proposal, consumers buying any kind of athletic shoe would pay an extra 25 cents. Proceeds from the new tax would be earmarked for the state’s YouthBuild programs

http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/illinois/sneaker-tax-illinois-considers-a--cent-charge/article_51020583-02c9-51ce-b858-1e07054a4648.html

[slackmaster]

1. That's really not much of a burden on someone who can afford to pay $25,000 for a pair of sneakers

[leftyohiolib]

2. tax all those hi-end air-imports- they should also add a big fat tax to sports tickets as well

[bigwillq]

3. At least this tax seems to be going for a good cause.

Let's hope that program is implemented correctly.

[madrchsod]

4. good old Illinois where that 25ct will be diverted somewhere else

they have done a real bang up job diverting funds for the pension system i`m sure they find a way to divert this tax somewhere else

[libtodeath]

5. States would not have to do this stuff if they and congress just taxed

the fat cats raking in the dough like they should.