Transit union pushes for online sales tax

(Photo: Heberger Site / Flickr)(Photo: Heberger Site / Flickr)

The Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), a union for public transportation workers, is pushing for Congress to pass legislation that could give states more money for public transportation systems, The Hill reported.

The bill, the Marketplace Fairness Act of 2012, would allow state and local governments to collect sales taxes from online purchases, which ATU said could mean more transportation-dedicated funds.

Online retailers and consumer groups have criticized the bill, arguing that it is unfair for states to tax purchases located in other jurisdictions.

ATU argued that the bill could provide the means necessary to fund transit improvements.

The Senate has already approved the bill. It is uncertain whether the House will do the same.