NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Michael Hale, R-Smithville, has filed legislation that would create a three-month sales tax holiday on food purchased by senior citizens in Tennessee.

House Bill 243 would make the retail sale of food and food ingredients tax free statewide for anyone 70 years of age and older between July 1 and Sept. 30 of this year.

“Senior citizens, especially those on a fixed income, are really struggling right now because of inflation,” Hale said. “These rising prices on everything from the grocery store to the gas pump unfortunately mean that some may be forced to choose between buying food or paying their bills. This legislation is one way that we as a state can provide additional relief to those Tennesseans in need of assistance.”

The proposed tax cut would not apply to alcoholic beverages, tobacco, candy, dietary supplements or prepared food.

Last year, Republicans approved approximately $300 million in historic tax cuts for Tennesseans. Those included sales tax holidays on food, clothing and school supplies last summer along with the removal of the state’s portion of license plate registration fees for one year.

Additional information about House Bill 243 can be found at https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0243&ga=113

Michael Hale represents House District 40, which includes Cannon, DeKalb, Jackson, Smith and part of Wilson counties. He is a member of the Local Government Committee, Commerce Committee, Business and Utilities Subcommittee and Cities and Counties Subcommittee. He can be reached at rep.michael.hale@capitol.tn.gov or by calling 615-741-2192.