Tax on Violence

Peter Navarro’s chances of having his proposed “violence tax” enacted to stem killings (Commentary, June 11) are slim and none and slim just left town. The entertainment industry (motion pictures and television) enjoys privileged status when it comes to paying its fair share of taxes and regulatory fees. For example, in 1988 the entertainment industry championed legislation making it exempt from sales and use tax on film and sound processing and related charges. These exemptions have recently spread to its acquisitons of creative artwork and post-production (editing) equipment.

Were this industry to pay its fair share of sales and use tax, we no doubt would see a drop in the overall rate from 8.25% to at least 7%. No way would a “violence tax” fly. Nice try though, professor.

JOSEPH J. COHEN

Retired Administrator

State Board of Equalization

Los Angeles