Commission of the Council of States does not want to exempt companies from TV levy
Companies are to continue paying a radio and television license fee. The Council of States' Committee on Transport and Telecommunications (KVF) does not intend to exempt them from this fee.
The committee rejected a parliamentary initiative by SVP National Councillor Gregor Rutz (ZH) by 10 votes to 2, as reported by the parliamentary services on Tuesday.
The Commission points out that the electorate approved the new levy system in 2015. In view of the recent changeover, it does not believe it is appropriate to provide for a new change.
The National Council Committee approved the initiative. If it sticks to its decision, Parliament will decide. The majority of the National Council committee is of the opinion that SRG should make savings. In addition, company owners and employees already pay a fee as private individuals, argue the proponents of a change.
Without the corporate levy, there would be a shortfall of CHF 170 million. Companies pay a graduated levy based on turnover, which is due from a turnover of CHF 500,000.
The KVF of the Council of States sees a need for action with regard to the taxation of joint ventures. It is calling for an exemption for these. It approved a parliamentary initiative by Councillor of States Hans Wicki (FDP/NW) by 9 votes to 2 with 1 abstention. This will now go to the National Council's sister committee.
Today, joint ventures also have to pay a tax because they are subject to VAT - and because the registration of companies subject to the tax is based on the corresponding register. The Commission notes that this simplifies the registration process considerably. At the same time, however, joint ventures formed by other companies for the sole purpose of carrying out a specific transaction would also be included.
In this case, the tax is levied both on the participating companies and on the joint venture. This would result in actual double taxation. (SDA)
