Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia House Bill HR1135

Introduced
2/15/24  
Report Pass
3/13/24  
Introduced
2/15/24  
Enrolled
3/28/24  
Report Pass
3/13/24  
Enrolled
3/28/24  

Caption

House Study Committee on Credit Card Fee on State Sales and Excise Tax and Their Impact on Georgia Merchants and Consumers; create

Impact

The creation of this study committee could lead to changes in how merchant discount fees are assessed in relation to sales and excise tax. By addressing the financial burdens placed on retailers, especially small businesses, the committee's findings could ultimately affect the state’s sales tax regulations. Stakeholders in the retail sector are particularly concerned about the costs attributed to processing electronic payments and their implications for overall business viability within the state.

Summary

House Resolution 1135 establishes the House Study Committee on Credit Card Fees on State Sales and Excise Tax and Their Impact on Georgia Merchants and Consumers. The resolution recognizes the increasing reliance on electronic payment methods and acknowledges the fees that merchants face when customers use credit or debit cards. The intent of the committee is to analyze the effects of these transaction fees on Georgia's retailers and consumers, especially regarding whether these fees are appropriate when applied to the state tax portion of transactions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR1135 appears to be cautiously optimistic among proponents who believe that a focused study could highlight significant issues affecting the retail industry and lead to more favorable financial conditions for businesses. However, there is also skepticism regarding whether any actionable legislation will arise from the committee's findings, as previous studies may not have resulted in meaningful reforms.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the role of the state in regulating credit card fees and how this intersects with existing tax laws. Questions remain as to whether the merchant discount fees should be adjusted to exempt state tax collections, which could spark debates among various stakeholders ranging from consumer advocates to financial institutions. The effectiveness and potential outcomes of this resolution will depend heavily on the committee's investigations and recommendations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA S0768

Creates the interchange fee restriction act restricting interchange fees on sales and use tax or excise tax when payment is made with a credit or debit card.

GA S2522

Creates the interchange fee restriction act prohibiting interchange fees on sales and use tax or excise tax when payment is made with a credit or debit card.

GA H5582

Creates the interchange fee restriction act restricting interchange fees on sales and use tax or excise tax when payment is made with a credit or debit card.

GA H8212

Creates the interchange fee restriction act prohibiting interchange fees on sales and use tax or excise tax when payment is made with a credit or debit card.

GA HR655

House Study Committee on Gaming in the State of Georgia; create

GA HR1754

House Study Committee on Georgia Teacher Planning and Duty-Free Lunch; create

GA HR883

House Study Committee on Making Georgia the No. 1 State for Tourism; create

GA HR656

House Study Committee on Expanding Home Ownership Opportunities for Georgians; create

GA HR1032

House Study Committee on Raising the Minimum Wage in Georgia; create

GA SR890

Senate Study Committee on Protecting Free and Fair Markets in Georgia; create

Similar Bills

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OK SB2102

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LA HB883

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Relating To Deceptive Practices.