GOP lawmakers push dumping Idaho tax on food

BOISE, Idaho (AP) - Republican lawmakers including Sen. Russ Fulcher aim to eliminate Idaho’s 6 percent tax on groceries starting July 1, 2016.

Fulcher, a Meridian Republican running against Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter in the May primary, and Boise Sen. Cliff Bayer are promoting the proposed legislation.

Currently, Idaho gives nearly all its residents a credit when they file their annual tax returns, to offset surcharges they pay on groceries.

This tax credit has been expanded since legislation passed in 2009.

Come next year, it’s due to be $100 for everyone, and $120 for seniors.

Now, Bayer and Fulcher contend it’s better to simply do away with taxes on food.

The bill, yet to be introduced in the House tax committee, would cost Idaho an additional $25 million to finance, according to lawmakers’ estimates.