Disinfectant tax proposal too costly for local businesses and governments

As a city council member, I try to be mindful of how my decisions will impact those we serve. It is not unusual that a policy we feel is good for the community may have unintended consequences we had not considered. 

When this happens, my constituents are not shy about speaking up about how our decision created problems we were not aware of.

California cities and counties now find themselves in a similar situation about a relatively obscure budget proposal the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR) is making to the state legislature.

It involves something called a mill tax – a type of taxation based on the sale of a product. In this case, the state wants to raise this tax on bleach and other disinfectants by as much as 90 percent. 

I have several concerns about this proposal. 

First, it is astounding that such essential products are targeted for a tax. This completely contradicts important public health messages and an executive order from the Newsom Administration requiring the use of disinfectants to protect the public from COVID-19. Specifically, emergency public health regulations mandate frequent cleaning and use of disinfectants in restaurants, stores, nursing homes, hotels, buses, airports, public buildings, childcare centers, and high-traffic areas.

Second, CDPR’s proposal will raise the price of these products at a time when local businesses are struggling to survive. Restaurants, retail stores, gyms, childcare centers, and nursing homes should not be taxed more on products they have been ordered to use.

Third, the tax will also burden municipalities and the public sector. Our libraries, schools, and other local government buildings require heavy daily use of disinfectants. Our budgets are tight, and we should not have to spend extra money to buy products that protect our citizens.  

This is more than being a little tone-deaf. 

Fortunately, this misguided idea must receive approval from the California Legislature. I urge our lawmakers will take the time to read the language of the budget proposal and understand the impact on our schools, childcare centers, businesses, and local governments. 

Andrew Mendez is a member of the Azusa City Council.