FROM CHRIS SANDERS
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Alabama’s state sales tax on groceries is a cruel tax on survival. It increases hunger rates, drives struggling families deeper into poverty and adds pressure to household budgets with every trip to the grocery store. Fortunately, multiple bills this year will provide options for lawmakers to end this regressive tax in a sustainable, meaningful way.
Alabama Arise Action members and legislative champions will gather for a news conference on untaxing groceries today at 12:15 p.m. on the front steps of the State House in Montgomery. Media members are welcome and invited for the entire event.
Invited speakers include Sen. Merika Coleman, D-Pleasant Grove, and Rep. Penni McClammy, D-Montgomery. Coleman’s forthcoming bill would eliminate the state sales tax on groceries in one step while closing an income tax loophole that overwhelmingly benefits wealthy households. McClammy plans to work alongside Sen. Andrew Jones, R-Centre, to introduce other forthcoming legislation that would reduce the state sales tax on groceries.
Ending the state grocery tax in a responsible way has been a longtime priority for Arise members. Alabama is one of only three states with no tax break on groceries. By ending the 4% state grocery tax, lawmakers could save Alabamians the equivalent of two weeks’ worth of groceries each year.
WHAT: Alabama Arise Action news conference on untaxing groceries
WHO: Invited speakers include:
State Sen. Merika Coleman, D-Pleasant Grove
State Rep. Penni McClammy, D-Montgomery
Kathy Vincent, board president, Alabama Arise Action
Robyn Hyden, executive director, Alabama Arise Action
WHERE: Front steps, Alabama State House, 11 South Union St., Montgomery, AL 36130
WHEN: Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at 12:15 p.m.
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Alabama Arise Action is a statewide, member-led nonprofit organization advancing public policies to improve the lives of Alabamians who are marginalized by poverty. Arise’s membership includes faith-based, community, nonprofit and civic groups, grassroots leaders and individuals from across Alabama. Alabama Arise Action is the 501(c)(4) partner organization of Alabama Arise.
