New Yorkers have the opportunity to make their voices heard to Albany during the 45 day public comment period on new regulations proposed to limit the supply of "unstamped and untaxed" cigarettes sold by Native American retailers to non-Native Americans.

The proposed regulations, issued by the State Department of Taxation and Finance, seek to curtail the unlimited flow of tax-free cigarettes by limiting the number of "unstamped and untaxed" cigarettes which can be supplied to Indian retailers to a specific amount which could only be used by tribal members.

Several New York State Governors have ignored the New York State law by allowing this unfair competition to negatively impact our local businesses. These new regulations from Taxation and Finance will limit the sale of untaxed cigarettes sold by Native American retailers and ensure a more level playing field for our convenience stores and other retailers who follow the law and collect these taxes.

Please take the time to send an e-mail or mail a letter of support during the public comment period. By supporting these regulations, you are supporting our local businesses and our future economy.

Comments will be accepted until Monday, April 26, 2010.

Mail your written comments to

John W. Bartlett, Director of Regulations
Taxpayer Guidance Division
Department of Taxation and Finance
W.A. Harriman Campus, Building 9, Room 161
Albany, NY 12227

Email your comments to tax_regulations@tax.state.ny.us

More info:

• Department of Taxation and Finance
• New Cigarette Tax Proposal
• Sample Letter