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Stop the Florida Tax Increase on Rental Cars

Over the last couple of years, some members of the Florida Legislature have looked at people who rent cars as an ATM for the state. Seeking to collect money for projects, but unwilling to pass a tax on Floridians, lawmakers have turned to taxing services believed to be used by out of state visitors. Not only is this tactic a poor one that depresses vital tourism money, it overlooks the issue that many who rent cars are local businesses. According to surveys of the National Business Travel Association's membership, a majority of travel managers rent a majority of their cars in their local markets. Thus, a tax increase on rental cars is in actuality a hidden tax on Florida businesses.

The Legislature is considering a special session in which it will seek to increase the current rental car $2 a day tax to $4 a day. The money collected would be used on the Orlando area commuter Sunrail.

Earlier this month a coalition comprised of NBTA, rental companies and the National Consumers Union released a statement opposing the plan citing; an impact on local low income residents, business travelers and car sharing programs.

There is opposition in the State House and Senate to this tax, but we need you as a Floridian and a member of the business travel community to stop this tax. Please send a message to Governor Crist, your State Senator and State Representative opposing this plan.

Please contact , Director, Public Policy, with any questions.

National Business Travel Association
110 N. Royal Street | 4th Floor
Alexandria, Virginia 22314 USA
Phone (703) 684-0836 | Fax (703) 684-0263

www.nbta.org