[Dysphagia] Professional Privilege Tax

[smhjr at surfbest.net (smhjr@surfbest.net)]

Since, once again, PTs and OTs come out with a much better deal it's
time to say "Why can't speech organizations recruit their lobbyist to
work for us?"

---- Original Message ----
From: skware1@msn.com
To: dysphagia@b9.com
Subject: RE: [Dysphagia] Professional Privilege Tax
Date: Fri, 20 May 2005 00:14:58 -0500

>In Tennessee, there is a $400 per year professional privilege tax for
>SLP's & audiologists--in addition to the bi-annual licensure fee &
>yearly ASHA certification fee.  This tax used to be $200 per year;
>however, an emergency "temporary" budget was passed about 2 years
>ago, and tacked onto the end of the list was a doubling of the tax. 
>The tax is for the "privilege" of working as a professional in
>Tennessee.  We don't receive any special privileges at all.  It is
>really just an easy way for the state to get more money.  In addition
>to SLP's & audiologists, other taxed professionals include
>physicians, pharmacists, attorneys, accountants, dentists,
>veterinarians, engineers, & several others who typically have
>significantly higher salaries.  PT's & OT's are not taxed.  Many SLP
>employers will not reimburse their employees for the tax.
>
>I'm writing because my tax is due on June 1st, & every time I write
>the check, I get plain mad.  Many letters have been written to those
>in power but to no avail.  I don't think we have much backing. 
>Interestingly, lobbyists are taxed as well.  I am asking for any
>ideas or suggestions regarding this unfair tax & how to at least
>attempt to get something done to end or decrease it.  
>
>Counting my pennies,
>Sarah Ware, MS,
>CCC-SLP_______________________________________________
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