How has the sales tax influenced some people in the United States over time? Responses It has been used to encourage fewer people to buy a product. It has been used to encourage fewer people to buy a product. It has forced the government to provide fewer services to people. It has forced the government to provide fewer services to people. It has caused companies to increase production of their products. It has caused companies to increase production of their products. It has led to the creation of products that are less safe.