[Dysphagia] Professional Privilege Tax

[jbrown at Asha.org (Janet Brown)]

I forwarded your message to Charlie Diggs, ASHA's Director of State and
Consumer Advocacy. He told me that this issue is #1 on the Tennessee
association's public policy advocacy list but, like any tax, is
difficult to remove. TSHA has been working on it for at least 4
years--I'm sure TSHA would be a good resource for your advocacy if
you're not already in contact with them. 

Janet

Janet Brown, MA CCC-SLP
Director
Health Care Services in Speech-Language Pathology
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
10801 Rockville Pike
Rockville, MD  20852
301-897-0136
FAX: 301-897-7354

Register now--Schools 2005
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>>> "Sarah Ware" <skware1@msn.com> 5/20/2005 1:14:58 AM >>>
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_______________________________________________
Dysphagia mailing list
Dysphagia@b9.com 
http://lists.b9.com/mailman/listinfo/dysphagia 

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