Las Vegas Sun

March 29, 2024

letter to the editor:

Oncologists against margin tax

On behalf of the Nevada Oncology Society, I want to express my concern with the statewide Ballot Question 3, referred to as “The Margin Tax Initiative” or “The Education Initiative.” Nevada Oncology Society is a nonprofit organization representing medical oncologists, surgical oncologists and other oncology specialists who provide cancer care in Nevada.

Although this tax is aimed at supporting a noble cause, voters need to be aware of the full implications should this initiative pass. This referendum amounts to a major tax increase that not only will harm Nevada businesses but will create a barrier for patients battling life-threatening illnesses, like cancer. By quadrupling the business tax rate, it will become difficult for doctors to continue providing the most appropriate and accessible care to their patients.

Additionally, because this tax is based on the total amount of dollars that a business brings in, as opposed to being based on profits, small businesses and health care providers that operate at a loss or break even will still face a 2 percent tax. This has the potential to disproportionately impact access for Medicare and Medicaid patients, where payment rates are set by the government and barely cover the cost of care.

We encourage all Nevadans to stand up for cancer patients and vote “No” on Ballot Question 3.

The writer is president of the Nevada Oncology Society.

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