New state and local government revenues from Amazon alone are expected to be as high as $100m during the first year of collection, with the total for all internet sellers reaching $317m in the year that began July 1. Much more money is expected to flow into government coffers in coming years as e-shopping expands.

California consumers are divided on the internet sales tax issue. Many who have avoided taxes in the past rushed to make last-minute tax-free purchases. "Definitely stocking up ... can't beat 8 percent or 9 percent savings," tweeted Patrick Chen, who identified himself on Twitter as an internet game developer.

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