"Suharto doesn't seem to grasp how difficult and dire the situation really is, " says a well-connected academic.

CNN: COVER STORY - SPECIAL REPORT

The reality is that most states are in difficult to dire financial condition and the temptation to add this sales tax revenue to their coffers will prove irresistible.

FORBES: Amazon Gets Both Reactionary and Proactive in Struggle to Avoid Sales Taxes