Part of proposed tax reform in Washington has consumers and local businesses concerned about their bottom line.
It would levy a 20 percent tax on all imported goods.
9 & 10’s Blayke Roznowski and photojournalist Noah Jurik talked to businesses and consumers in the border town of Sault Ste. Marie on how they’re reacting to a potential Border Adjustment Tax.
"Everything that impacts American’s daily lives and businesses would be affected by this tax in some way," Americans for Affordable Products Michigan spokesperson Jeff Timmer said.
The A.A.P Coalition came to Sault Ste. Marie Tuesday to explain the widespread impact the proposed Border Adjustment Tax could have on every day goods.
"Think of how much food comes from other countries, your clothing, office supplies, your equipment, electronics equipment, iPhones, computers," Timmer said.
The proposed tax is of particular concern in the city of Sault Ste. Marie because they’re right on an international border.
"This is a great example of a town that has an economy that depends on the flow of trade that comes both ways," Timmer said.
"Coffee, I have retail goods in my store as well. I get products from Mexico, some vegetable and fruits," Cup of the Day owner Anthony Stackpoole said. "That’s going to be passed on to the consumer."
With the possibility of $1 trillion in taxes over 10 years, it’s a big concern for small businesses like Cup of the Day.
"I don’t think that shifting the tax burden to the consumer is a good point to that plan," Stackpoole said. "I’m all for tax reform, but on the backs of consumers and families is not a good idea."
Community members have concerns too.
"They raise it and we have to pay it and that doesn’t seem fair or just in any way shape or form."
The A.A.P. recommends reaching out to your local representatives if you have concerns about the proposed tax.
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