MANCHESTER — Connecticut car wash owners are revved up about state lawmakers suddenly imposing a new sales tax on their services.
They contend their coin-operated washes and vacuums are unable to collect the 6.35 percent levy and want the General Assembly to revisit the matter.
The Connecticut Car Wash Association says if its members increase their prices to cover the cost, as suggested by some lawmakers and the state tax commissioner, they run the risk of losing price-sensitive customers who could choose to clean their vehicles at home.
The car wash tax first came to light late in the legislative session, without a public hearing. It was ultimately included a budget-related bill approved June 29, affecting both coin- and non-coin operated washes. Effective July 1, the tax affects other services including detailing.
