IT is not just the prospect of a New York State saltwater li cense that has sportsmen upset, it’s all the new taxes being aimed at the outdoor industry in general.
The $19 saltwater license ($40 for out of state anglers) alone would create another burden for marinas, tackle shops and marine dealers, most of whom already are suffering from a two-year-long decline in business.
In addition to a saltwater license, Gov. Paterson’s budget also would put a 5 percent luxury tax on all boats costing more than $200,000, an increase in marina fees, an increase in state park fees and a lifting of the cap on state fuel taxes.
“We’re outraged that the Governor would recommend not one, but five new or increased taxes targeting fishermen, boaters and the $1 billion New York recreational fishing industry. We’re experiencing an unprecedented downturn in fishing activity. Even fishing from the shore will be an expensive outing under this tax plan,” said Jim Donofrio, executive director of Recreational Fishing Alliance (RFA).
Joining in RFA’s opposition is a coalition composed of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), New York Fishing Tackle Trade Association (NYFTTA), United Boatmen of New York and the New York Marine Trades Association (NYMTA). The new coalition is calling itself Save Boating and Fishing Jobs in New York.
Recreational marine fishing in New York created $812 million in sales, directly supported 5,365 jobs, provided $424 million in value-added economic impact and $126 million in tax revenue, according to a 2006 National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) study. NMFS excluded significant revenue from excise taxes applied to fishing trips, bait and tackle sales, and marine fuel.
“Fishermen already pay a huge amount in taxes to enjoy their sport,” Donofrio said. “Now is the time to support this important industry, not stifle it.”
To learn more and to send a form letter to Gov. Paterson, visit the RFA Web site at http://www.joinrfa.org.