The state’s food sales tax may well be eliminated this legislative session instead of New Year’s Day 2025 — but a bill passed by both Kansas House and Senate would link that action to the creation of a flat income tax rate.
The Senate voted 24-13 in favor of Senate Bill 169, with 17th District Senator Jeff Longbine of Emporia voting with the majority. This follows a an 85-38 vote in favor in the House, with 60th District Representative Mark Schreiber of Emporia, 13th District Representative Duane Droge of Eureka and 76th District Representative Eric Smith of Burlington all with the majority.
SB 169 would develop a 5.15 percent individual income tax rate for taxable income above $12,300 for married residents filing joint returns or $6,150 for all other individuals. No income tax would be collected if taxable income is under those numbers. The proposed rate is below one approved by the House but above one discussed in the Senate.
In exchange, the state sales tax on food — already reduced after action by lawmakers last year — would be eliminated Jan. 1 instead of being phased out, as is the current arrangement. Local sales taxes would still apply.
