ICYMI: Editorial: States Should Eliminate Sales Tax on Groceries

Feb 15, 2022

ICYMI: Editorial: States Should Eliminate Sales Tax on Groceries

Key Quote: We support these efforts and urge the quick passage of legislation in our Four-State Area to eliminate state sales taxes on groceries. These taxes disproportionately harm those who are already struggling, and states have a plethora of other taxes and programs at their disposal to raise needed revenue.

Our view: States should eliminate sales tax on groceries 
Joplin Globe
February 10, 2022 

  • State sales tax on groceries has disappeared from most states in the U.S. — but not in the Four-State Area. Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma and Arkansas are among just 13 states that still tax grocery purchases. 
  • Kansas Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly and a coalition of lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are supporting “Axe the Food Tax,” an initiative that would eliminate the state sales tax on food in Kansas. 
  • The food sales tax rate is 6.5%, the second-highest rate in the country; dropping that tax could save the average family at least $500 per year on groceries, according to Kelly’s office. 
  • “This tax cut will put money back in Kansans’ pockets and create real savings for those who need it most,” Kelly said. 
  • These taxes disproportionately harm those who are already struggling, and states have a plethora of other taxes and programs at their disposal to raise needed revenue. 

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