The Arizona House Ways and Means Committee has passed a measure that would do away with the state’s sales tax on firearm purchases.
The bill’s sponsor, Republican Rep. Steve Kaiser, believes it will help make firearms more affordable for anyone, regardless of income.
But beyond that, he says current laws put firearm dealers at a disadvantage, as private gun sales aren’t required to charge local taxes.
"This would actually encourage more folks to go to gun stores and buy their guns and buy their accessories instead of going to private sales. If they prefer that, they can still go to private sales. But if they want to save time and money they can support our local businesses that sell firearms and firearms safety equipment," Kaiser said.
Legislative budget staffers figure the exemption would cut more than $6 million from state revenue if fully implemented. The measure now needs approval from the full Arizona house.
