Lawmakers return to NC capital to talk sales tax

RALEIGH -- The House and Senate are getting back to work on whether they can agree to an overhaul of North Carolina's tax structure next year. Members of the finance committees in both chambers scheduled to hold a joint meeting Tuesday. Democratic leaders at the General Assembly worked unsuccessfully during this year's legislative session to fashion a plan to lower tax rates and increase the number of items subject to taxation. Instead, they raised about $1 billion in new taxes to close a new revenue gap. Proponents of sales tax changes contend an overhaul would ultimately tap into North Carolina's shifting service-oriented economy. An agreement isn't immediately on the horizon. Lawmakers will hear presentations Tuesday on the history of the sales tax and current exemptions. (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)