NM internet tax proposed

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - It's one of the busiest shopping seasons of the year with lots of deals to be had.  But two New Mexico lawmakers say they will introduce an internet tax for locals to help the state's economy.

Now more and more New Mexicans are doing their shopping on the internet.  It's not only convenient, but in New Mexico you don't have to pay a sales tax although that could soon change.

This next legislative session in Januray, State Sen. Eric Griego says he plans on introducing legislation that would mean if you buy something online, you would pay a seven percent state sales tax. 

He says that would level the playing field for local murchants, as well as raise millions of dollars for the state's hurting economy.

"We forego something like $246 million dollars in revenue to these out of state companies that we could use for schools, healthcare, for roads, universities, things that we depend on," Griego said.

Griego and State Rep. Eleanor Chavez sponsored this type of legislation in the past but it failed and they will have a tough battle this next session as well.

Governor Martinez says she will veto an internet tax hike. 

"The Governor does not support raising taxes on New Mexicans for internet purchases.  Families are struggling and adding a burden on them will prevent us from recovering economically," said the Governor's spokesman.