3/22/2011
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -On Monday, March 21, 2011, Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin signed House Bill 2971, which relates to the consumer sales tax on food for home consumption.
"I am so pleased to sign into law a $26 million reduction of the food tax. This tax relief will impact every West Virginia household. Over the past six years, we have responsibly given approximately $100 million dollars of food tax relief to our citizens.
In my State of the State Address, I called for the Legislature to make this reduction. At that time, knowing it was the right thing to do I anticipated that the legislature would support a piece of legislation that would provide tax relief to nearly every West Virginia citizen.
When it seemed the food tax reduction was dead, I pressed the Legislature to reconsider and assist their fellow West Virginians. Ultimately they agreed with me and took the fiscally responsible step passing my proposal. It brings me great pride to say, in the end, government acted as it should and put the best interest of our citizens first."
By lowering the food tax from the current 3 percent to 2 percent, the state will return $26 million to the pockets of citizens. Now signed into law, the food tax cut will become effective on January 1, 2012.
"Food is a life necessity and one, I believe, that should be affordable for every individual," Gov. Tomblin said. "I am pleased to inform all West Virginia citizens that part this tax burden will be lifted starting next year. I hope this change will assist our seniors and families handle the expense of everyday living more comfortably."
Contact Information
Jacqueline Proctor
304-558-2000