Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger has indicated a willingness to consider taxing services like streaming and gym memberships, suggesting that if the proposals are reasonable and logical, they should be explored.
During an interview with ABC8 News reporter Tyler Englander, Spanberger was asked about her potential response if such a bill came across her desk in her future gubernatorial years. She noted that the General Assembly had not yet passed any such measures, including those targeting streaming services and dry cleaning.
Englander pointed out that although some controversial tax proposals had been mentioned, none had been formally approved. He pressed Spanberger on whether she would sign or veto any future tax legislation targeting these services.
Spanberger replied, “It’s true these bills didn’t pass, and I appreciate the clarification regarding the claims about the president pushing tax ideas in Virginia. However, I value input from community members on different revenue generation methods. I think all suggestions deserve consideration, provided they’re sensible.”
Regarding the proposed streaming taxes, Spanberger noted that there was once a sales tax when DVDs were commonly purchased.
“Streaming presents a different scenario,” she continued. “I understand the importance of these discussions, but whether I would sign such a bill would depend on its specific provisions.”
In January, Virginia’s Democratic lawmakers introduced several new tax proposals, including taxes on ammunition, events, gym memberships, counseling services, and deliveries from companies like Amazon and FedEx, as well as taxes on dry cleaning and home repairs.
In an April 11 post on Truth Social, former President Donald Trump criticized Spanberger, claiming she was imposing numerous taxes and suggesting that businesses and residents were leaving Virginia due to these tax increases. He lamented, “The new governor has added so many taxes, it’s losing its energy and vitality. Companies that were interested in coming to Virginia under Governor Youngkin are now seeking an exit.”
