A new bill allows Kentuckians to sue the governor over taxes on gold and silver sales, aiming to challenge a recent veto.
Louisville: A group of Republican lawmakers is making waves in Kentucky. They want to give residents the right to sue Governor Andy Beshear over taxes on gold and silver. This push is led by Rep. T.J. Roberts, a freshman legislator who has a history of legal battles with the governor.
Last week, Roberts introduced House Bill 2, which aims to overturn a veto by Beshear. This veto blocked a plan to exempt gold and silver coins from sales tax. The bill has gained support from several other GOP representatives.
If this bill passes, folks who paid sales tax on gold and silver since August could seek refunds. They could also claim $1,000 for each day the tax was in effect, which would be paid by the governor’s office.
Roberts filed the bill on Thursday and has already gathered a dozen Republican cosponsors, including House Speaker David Osborne. He believes this move is essential to maintain the separation of powers, arguing that Beshear’s veto was an abuse of power.
Roberts pointed out that gold and silver have historically helped people preserve their wealth during tough economic times. He feels they should be exempt from sales tax.
Beshear had previously vetoed a sales tax exemption included in a broader tax law bill, claiming that those who own gold can afford the tax. This veto has sparked controversy, with some lawmakers calling it illegal.
Interestingly, over 40 states already have some form of sales tax exemption for bullion and currency, according to the National Coin & Bullion Association. It seems like Kentucky might be lagging behind.
Roberts isn’t new to legal challenges against Beshear. Back in April 2020, he and others sued the governor over quarantine orders during the pandemic, and they won in court.
It’ll be interesting to see how this unfolds. Stay tuned for updates!
