Car import perks for deputies cost state $506,000

FINANCIAL PERKS  in the way of tax  exemptions on  imported vehicles, resulted in $506,000 lost revenue to the state, according to a report by the National Customs Authority.

The most expensive vehicles imported during the period were purchased by PRD deputies Crispiano Adames and Benicio Robinson; CD deputies Nelson Jackson and Fernando Carrillo; and Miguel Salas and Luis Barria of the Panameñista party. The vehicles were all valued at more than $55,000.

In addition, the authority said that between 2009 and 2014, deputies imported 165 vehicles, which cost the government $1.4 million in tax revenue.

During that period, the most expensive vehicle was imported by CD Deputy Jose Maria Herrera, which had a value of $116,000. That vehicle would have had a tax bill of $33,000.

The report also noted violations of the rules regarding the importation of vehicles.

For example, Panameñista Deputy Juan Miguel Rios in 2010 imported three cars, which was one more than the two vehicles allowed by law.

Rios could not be reached for comment reports La Prensa