Nick Reisman is reporting for State of Politics sales tax revenue for local governments continues to fall. Comptroller Tom DiNapoli said August 12, the state brought in $116 million or 8.2 percent less last month that during a similar period last year. The revenue decline is the latest monthly drop in sales taxes, but it was not as steep as previous months as businesses continue to reopen for the second month in a row. Speaking of the downturn, DiNapoli said, “This is going to have a long-lasting effect on revenues for counties, cities and many towns and villages around the state. The federal government needs to step up and provide financial help to those hit hard by this virus. Without action, communities may need to make severe cuts to critical services.” Read the full story at nystateofpolitics [dot] com.