Annual reminder that discount Christmas sales remain illegal in Idaho

Idaho Freedom Foundation ^ | November 24, 2017 | Wayne Hoffman

[sparklite2]

Although the FTC examines claims of predatory pricing carefully, courts, including the Supreme Court, have been skeptical of such claims.

[trebb]

There was a time we would take advantage of the loss-leaders advertised by stores and only to buy the discounted items - then go to our regular store which sells everything else a bit cheaper than most...these days it’s too much effort and waste of valuable time to chase the bargains.

[MD Expat in PA]

I could be wrong but if I recall correctly, when I lived in Maryland, BJ’s was not allowed to sell gasoline to members at a discount below what gas stations sold it for, and got in trouble for it. When businesses conspire to price fix, it is supposedly illegal, but when the government mandates it, it’s OK?

I have also seen signs at convenience stores here in PA saying “lowest cigarette prices allowed by law”.

I also have to wonder if it also has to do with the state and or local governments feeling they are being “cheated” out of sales tax revenue.

The Idaho (ID) state sales tax rate is currently 6%. Depending on local municipalities, the total tax rate can be as high as 9%. Local level, non-property taxes are allowed within resort cities if approved by 60% majority vote. This includes hotel, liquor and sales taxes.