Gov. George Pataki (R) wants to delay indefinitely the collection of sales taxes on the reservation, his tax commissioner said on Tuesday.

Tribes and Indian businesses are fighting the plan, which is set to go into effect March 1. The Seneca Nation has been leading opposition, running an ad campaign and writing President Bush for help.

The Tax Department said it needs more time to review comments submitted. But officials are also worried about the possibility of violence. According to news reports, top state officials are concerned there might be protests during the Republican Nation Convention in New York City in August.

Non-Indian businesses are pushing for the tax.

Get the Story:
State official wants to delay Indian tax (The Albany Times-Union 2/11)
State delays collecting tax on sales by Indians (AP 2/11)

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