When it comes to tax policy, much of the attention in this year’s Kansas legislative session has revolved around the use of a flat tax and/or changes to standard deductions and personal exemptions. However, other tax policy matters have been moving forward.
Last week, the Kansas Senate passed HB 2036, which is designed to add a sales tax exemption for “tangible personal property and services” bought by Kansas veterans who have been honorably discharged and sustained a minimum 50-precent permanent disability rating while serving the country. The bill passed 38-2, with 17th District Senator Jeff Longbine of Emporia in favor. The bill had already passed the House on a 123-1 vote. 60th District Representative Mark Schreiber of Emporia, 13th District Representative Duane Droge of Eureka and 76th District Representative Eric Smith of Burlington all voted for the bill.
The Senate also passed SB 498. This increases the state adoption tax to 100 percent of the federal credit. It also enacts the Pregnancy Resource Act which offers credits for various contributions to certain pregnancy resources or residential maternity facilities — and it begins a sales tax exemption for the aforementioned locations. Longbine was in the 28-12 majority with this bill.
