NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — In an effort to both improve the health of Tennesseans, as well as help small businesses, Governor Bill Lee and some state lawmakers want to repeal a tax on gyms.
A 10 percent tax impacts small, boutique gyms, rather than large franchises across Tennessee. It could cost gym members upwards of ten dollars per month.
Governor Bill Lee says health is a major priority for his administration. Thus, Lee said he wants to repeal the tax all together.
Lawmakers had been eyeing a bill that would do it, but a governor-backed push is now making its way through the legislature.
Supporters of the bill say this will have a broad impact, allowing more people to pursue physical fitness.
"It doesn't sound like a lot, but for that small business they have a really tough choice to make," said state majority leader William Lamberth. "Do they just eat that tax and eat that cost as part of their bottom line or do they pass it along to their membership?"
