Star Wars: The Galactic Senate on the Taxation of Hyperlanes

For thousands of years, the Galactic Republic has peacefully governed multiple planets from the Core Worlds to the Outer Rims. The Galactic Republic exists as a federal parliamentary republic led by the Galactic Senate. Making up the Galactic Republic’s legislative body is the Supreme Chancellor and appointed representatives of the member worlds. The Galactic Senate is responsible for preserving the Republic’s democratic institutions, enacting galactic law, and resolving disputes between worlds. Supported by the Jedi Order, the Galactic Republic diplomatically handles potentially dangerous conflicts.

It is 32 BBY (before the Battle of Yavin) and turmoil has hit the Galactic Republic. The Galactic Senate passed the Senate Resolution BR-0371 taxing hyperspace routes in the Outer and Mid Rim territories. Though meant to alleviate the Galactic Republic’s growing fiscal debt and support development projects in outlying systems, it has caused the Trade Federation significant losses in the previously Free Trade Zone. As the Galactic Senate works to mitigate the issue, tensions rise across the star systems.