Senator Gumm Calls for GOP to Support Bill Ending Grocery Tax

Sen. Jay Paul Gumm is continuing his effort to end the sales tax on groceries and has called on Senate Republicans to help pass his legislation during the 2009 session. Gumm, a Democrat from Durant, said his proposal would help every family in the state.

“I am pleased to hear Senate Republicans say they want tax reform and relief for Oklahoma families. Eliminating the tax on groceries would give instant help to Oklahomans and it would stimulate our economy,” Gumm said. “I urge my fellow members to join me in passing this important legislation.”

Senate Bill 42 would remove the sales tax on eligible food and beverages, excluding alcoholic beverages and tobacco. Oklahoma’s state sales tax on groceries is 4.5 percent on every dollar spent, but some cities and counties have additional sales taxes than make the total tax more than 9 percent. Gumm’s bill would allow municipalities and counties to continue collecting the grocery sales tax unless they choose to honor the exemption.

“If you really want to make an impact that will benefit everyone in Oklahoma, then abolishing taxes on groceries would be at the top of the list. The grocery tax is the most regressive tax there is, and it takes a heavy toll, not only on our families, but on our seniors as well,” Gumm said. “Furthermore, these are dollars individuals can put right back into our economy, boosting local businesses and spurring economic development. This is truly a win-win proposition.”