State Representative Swearingen Eases Sales Tax to Boost Tourism and Business

State Representative DJ Swearingen (R-Huron) has introduced legislation to make Ohio’s marine industry more competitive and support local workers, businesses, and tourism.

The measure, House Bill 419, would change the current tax treatment on watercraft coming to Ohio for repairs and maintenance.

Under current law, Swearingen said, watercraft coming to Ohio for maintenance and service during the off season could be subject to an additional sales tax on the value of the boat in Ohio in excess to that already paid in their home state. This is in addition to the sales tax which will be paid for the repair work on the vessel. House Bill 419 eliminates the additional Ohio tax on the value of the boat.

“Our current sales tax system discourages boaters from using Ohio’s marina for repair and maintenance, which undermines local workers and also hurts jobs and businesses,” said Representative Swearingen.

He said the local tourism industry generates $2.1 billion in annual sales, supporting local jobs and the economy.  This bill will encourage off season business to come to Ohio and help seasonal jobs to become full time employment.

“We want to support our local workers and businesses, not encourage visitors to take their business elsewhere.”