What is the CARE tax?

The CARE (cultural arts and recreation) tax is a 1/10 of one percent sales tax paid by those who shop in Orem. It is also sometimes referred to as a RAP (recreation, arts and parks) tax.

When did it start?

It started April 1, 2006, after the city established it as an ordinance and handed out the required legal notices

How long will it stay?

The tax can only be in place for eight years and then it expires. It could be reinstated through another election process.

How much money will it generate?

Based on sales tax revenue, the city projects about $1.6 million a year.

Who gets the money?

The CARE tax can be used only for nonprofit cultural arts organizations or recreation programs — such as live theater, symphonies, ballets, operas, choirs.

Publicly owned facilities can also benefit from the money.

Private, for-profit companies are ineligible to receive CARE tax monies.