Sabine Parish Police Jury revises sales tax ordinance for digital products

The Sabine Parish Police Jury has taken a significant step towards updating its sales tax regulations by introducing an ordinance that amends and revises the existing sales tax structure. During their regular meeting on April 16, 2025, the jury discussed the ordinance, which is set to take effect on August 1, 2024, and aims to align local tax laws with recent changes made by the Louisiana legislature.

The proposed ordinance includes a quarter percent (0.25%) sales and use tax and a one percent (1%) sales and use tax, both of which will be levied on various transactions within the parish. Notably, the ordinance expands the tax framework to include digital sales, reflecting the evolving nature of commerce in the digital age. This update is crucial as it ensures that local tax laws remain relevant and effective in capturing revenue from modern sales practices.

The ordinance was initially introduced in the previous month, and the police jury has worked closely with legal experts to ensure its compliance with state laws. The discussions highlighted the necessity of this amendment to maintain consistency with state regulations that were updated during the 2024 legislative session.

In addition to the primary tax updates, the ordinance outlines the collection process, penalties for non-compliance, and the allocation of tax revenues. The funds generated from these taxes will be dedicated to specific purposes as approved by voters in a prior election, ensuring transparency and accountability in how the revenue is utilized.

The police jury's decision to move forward with this ordinance is expected to have a positive impact on the parish's financial health, providing essential funding for community services and infrastructure. As the implementation date approaches, residents and businesses in Sabine Parish will need to prepare for the changes in tax obligations and ensure compliance with the new regulations.