Maine lawmaker proposes repeal of sales tax on U.S. flags

By The Associated Press

02.07.03

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WELLS, Maine — A legislator is proposing a law to repeal the sales tax on American flags, except for people who burn flags in protest.

A bill submitted by state Rep. Ronald Collins, R-Wells, would require flag-burners to return their tax savings to the state. It would also mandate that their names be published in newspapers.

Collins said the state shouldn't be taxing something that "means so much to the country." But he also doesn't want people who burn the flag to benefit from the law.

"There's been too much American blood spilled for that flag," he said.

The bill comes as the state faces a projected two-year budget shortfall of more than $1 billion. Collins said he didn't know how much his bill would cost the state in lost revenue, but didn't think it would be much.

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