The decision overturns decades-old decisions that had prevented such taxes. More than 40 states had asked the court to overturn the rules in the case South Dakota vs. Wayfair.

Although the many narrow Supreme Court decisions pit liberals against conservatives, this decision did not follow those lines. Liberal Ruth Bader Ginsburg supported the decision while Chief Justice John Roberts joined the dissenters.

The minority wanted any change in taxation rules to come from Congress, not the courts.

In a 5-4 ruling, the Supreme court opened the door for taxation of online purchases. While many large retailers already collect taxes for sales in states in which they do not have a presence, other Internet-based companies were able to escape state levies.

The decision overturns decades-old decisions that had prevent such taxes. More than 40 states had asked the court to overturn the rules in the case South Dakota vs. Wayfair.

Although the many narrow court decision pit liberals against conservatives on the court, this decision did not follow those lines. Liberal Ruth Bader Ginsburg supported the decision while Chief Justice John Roberts joined the dissenters.

The minority wanted any change in taxation rules to come from Congress, not the courts.