A study commissioned by the Seneca Nation of New York shows that the state would lose 2,785 jobs and $400 million in sales if taxation is enforced on Indian businesses.

The study by Charles W. de Seve, president of American Economics Group, says the state would only gain $27 million more in cigarette sales and excise taxes. This contrasts with figures from a pro-Indian tax group that says the state will gain $1 billion.

The study by de Seve said that the Seneca businesses account for 90 percent of in-state tribal cigarette sales. Since 52 percent are sold online to out-of-state customers, de Seve says these customers would just find other ways to find cheap cigarettes.

Get the Story:
Indian tax called costly for state (The Albany Times-Union 5/12)

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