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I feel that this requirement is only there so that the data can be collected for a coming VAT in the US. They can't push such unpopular legislation through at

I feel that this requirement is only there so that the data can be collected for a coming VAT in the US. They can't push such unpopular legislation through at once.

Vivtek 16y ago
That doesn't make sense for me. First, US lawmakers don't really think that far ahead. But more tellingly, this isn't a universal requirement - it just applies to business transactions that can't otherwise be audited. I think it's no more than what it appears to be: a ham-handed way to shore up the traceability of money flow.
- dantheman 16y ago
  And why does the government need to trace money flow?
  - Vivtek 16y ago
    The better to tax it, my dear. Presumably. I'm not saying I agree with it - I don't. Just that it's a smaller leap of faith in my opinion to believe that's the motivation.