NFIB State Director Leah Long says small business owners are urging members of the House Ways and Means Committee to approve House Bill 620, a proposed constitutional amendment that would simplify Louisiana’s complex sales tax system.

The committee meets on Monday.

The amendment would allow the state to implement a centralized system for collecting local sales and use taxes.

“Louisiana’s sales tax system is one of the most complex in the country,” Long said. “Small business owners with operations in different communities have to deal with multiple tax collectors, different rules, and confusing filing requirements. This amendment would create a simpler, more consistent system.”

Under the proposal, a central collector would gather the taxes and distribute the funds to the appropriate local authorities. The amendment also makes clear that local tax revenues would remain the property of local taxing authorities and would not be treated as state funds.

“Small businesses usually cann’t afford teams of accountants or lawyers to manage taxes,” she said. “A more streamlined process would reduce paperwork, lower compliance costs, and make it easier for small businesses to focus on serving their customers and growing their businesses.”

HB 620 would place the proposed amendment on the Nov. 3 ballot. If approved, the changes would take effect Jan. 1, 2027.