PURPOSE:

Years after the State's right to collect taxes generated by the sale of cigarettes by Native Americans to non-Native Americans at licensed "Smokeshops" and over the internet, the Department of Taxation and Finance has been stymied in its tax collection efforts. A policy of "forbearance" has been followed since the late 1980s to the present. In contrast, other states have been able to reach tax collection agreements with Native American Nations within their borders. 

New York City has aggressively pursued this revenue source, and the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York has aggressively pursued Poospatuck Tribe traffickers prosecuting its ringleader Rodney Morrison on criminal charges.  

This hearing will explore these contrasting approaches, and seek to achieve prudent and lawful means to effectively capture these vital tax revenues. In the face of a projected multibillion dollar budget shortfall, this failure can no longer be ignored.

In order to meet the needs of those who may have a disability, the New York State Senate has made its facilities and services available to all individuals with disabilities. Accommodations will be provided for individuals with disabilities, upon reasonable request, to afford such individuals access and admission to Senate facilities and activities.  

Questions about this hearing may be directed to Cari Abatemarco at 518-455-2618.