SHREVEPORT, La. — The Shreveport-Bossier New Car Dealers Association is urging voters to support Amendment 4, a ballot measure that would allow parishes to reconsider how vehicle inventory is taxed, as early voting continues ahead of the May 16 election.
Under current policy, vehicle dealerships are taxed on inventory before cars are sold, a system industry representatives say creates financial strain for local businesses.
“Every car sitting on a lot is taxed upfront,” said Patton Fritze, chairman of the Louisiana Automobile Dealers Association board. “That’s money that could be used to hire more employees, increase wages, and support growth right here in our region.”
Amendment 4 would give voters in each parish the option to change the existing inventory tax structure. Supporters say the measure could reduce upfront tax burdens on dealerships and allow businesses to reinvest in operations, workforce expansion and employee compensation.
Early voting is underway through May 9, with Election Day set for May 16.
The association said the proposed change could have broader economic effects by enabling dealerships to allocate more resources toward local investment and job creation.