Nick Reisman is reporting for State of Politics sales tax revenue for local governments statewide decreased by 27.1 percent in the second quarter of 2020, according to a report released July 24, by New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Local governments collected $3.3 billion in sales tax during the period of April through June, a drop of $1.2 billion from the same period in 2019. The loss of sales tax occurred as a result of the state's economic shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic. “Although there was a glimmer of hope in June, second quarter sales tax figures show how deep the COVID-19 pandemic is cutting into municipal finances,” DiNapoli said. “Collections are down markedly, especially in New York City, revealing the effect of the pandemic on consumer behavior. We'll be watching July closely to see the impact of the phased-in openings in different regions.” Another pandemic stimulus package that could include direct aid to local governments affected by the crisis is currently under consideration by the federal government. In the meantime, local governments could see budget cuts of up to 20 percent. Read the full story at nystateofpolitics.com.