Sen. Jolley Confident Tax Exemption to Help Needy Will Go To Governor

State Sen. Clark Jolley, R-Edmond, said he was confident a measure giving tax exemptions to organizations that help feed Oklahoma’s needy citizens will make it all the way to Gov. Brad Henry. Jolley said the measure is extremely important to organizations like Edmond’s Hope Center. Jolley is Senate principal author of the measure, while Rep. Ken Miller, R-Edmond is principal author in the House.

“This center receives many food donations, but they often have to purchase fresh foods such as vegetables, meat, eggs and milk in order to help provide food for those who would otherwise go without,” Jolley said. “Last year alone the Hope Center paid between more than $5,600 in sales tax for those things. That’s more than the spent on diapers or even medical supplies for area families. Just think how much more they could have provided for people in need if they’d had this exemption.”

Current state law provides a sales tax exemption for organizations that collect or donate purchases to shelters and other related organizations such as “Meals on Wheels.” However groups that actually distribute food and household products have no exemption.

“HB 1562 would ensure that exemption is extended to those organizations that currently fall between the cracks by including those meet specific federal guidelines—that would include organizations such as the Hope Center and others across the state,” Jolley said.

The measure has already been approved by the full Senate. Jolley said the next step will likely be a conference committee but is optimistic that the final version will be approved by both chambers and sent to the governor for his consideration.