By Ethan Faverino |
Arizona State Representative Leo Biasiucci (R-LD30) has introduced House Bill 2839, bipartisan legislation that would prohibit cities and towns across Arizona from imposing transaction privilege taxes or similar local taxes on food items that are eligible for purchase with benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
“In her State of the State address, Governor Hobbs said she wants to lower taxes for hardworking Arizona families,” stated Rep. Biasiucci. “I’m taking her at her word and answering that call by introducing HB 2839. This bill removes local taxes from the one thing every family needs to survive—food.”
HB 2839 amends ARS Section 42-6015 to clarify that municipalities may not levy transaction privilege, sales, use, franchise, or other similar taxes on SNAP and WIC-eligible food items, regardless of whether the purchaser participates in those programs.
These federal programs cover basic, essential foods such as fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, breads, and other necessities for “home consumption.” Taxing these items increases costs for families already facing tight budgets, and the bill aims to provide tax relief by extending the exemption uniformly.
“Taxing SNAP and WIC food purchases is wrong. These are necessities, not luxuries,” added Biasiucci. “If the Governor is serious about lowering taxes, this bill should be an easy yes. If she vetoes it, that will speak volumes. Arizonans will know exactly where she really stands when she talks about tax relief for families.”
The legislation would apply retroactively to taxable periods beginning on or after the first day of the month following the general effective date, ensuring swift relief if enacted. Supporters highlight that approximately 70 Arizona municipalities currently impose some form of tax on food, and this measure could help families save hundreds of dollars annually on groceries.
Representative Biasiucci is joined by a bipartisan group of co-sponsors, including four Democratic representatives, fifteen Republican representatives, and one Democratic senator.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
