Cutting the State-level Sales Tax on Food Is a Win for Kansas Families

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
April 28, 2022 
Contact: Jessica Herrera Russell

TOPEKA, Kansas – Multiple bills to reduce or eliminate the state sales tax on groceries have been stalled in the Kansas Legislature almost the entire session. But finally, lawmakers have come to an agreement and passed legislation that gradually reduces the tax rate on groceries, eventually bringing it to 0% by January 1, 2025.

While Kansas Action for Children is grateful that the Legislature passed a bill that will put money back into the pockets of families, we are also disappointed that Kansans will have to wait until January 1, 2023, to receive any monetary relief. Had lawmakers made this effective on July 1, 2022, families wouldn't have to needlessly wait six additional months to begin seeing cheaper grocery bills.

“We are frustrated lawmakers refused to prioritize this change during the legislative session and waited until almost the last possible opportunity to give money back to Kansas families,” said John Wilson, President and CEO of Kansas Action for Children. “Because of this lack of urgency, the Legislature spent down large sums of the historic $3 billion surplus while Kansas families waited at the back of the line.”

Wilson continued, “Thankfully, though, the Legislature did pass a cut to the state-level food sales tax before they adjourned for the year. This change will help many Kansans in the future, especially as we continue to see inflated prices on groceries and stagnated earnings among those living on low wages. We know that when families can make ends meet, their children experience more stability and parents are able to provide for their children and plan for the future. This policy will help thousands of families do that.”