‘Make it happen’: As Missouri lawmakers consider ending grocery tax, shoppers would see savings

ST. LOUIS, Mo. (First Alert 4) – Year after year, Missouri lawmakers consider tossing out the state’s tax on food, but it hasn’t happened as many Missouri cities rely on that tax for roads and public safety.

Still, Missouri is in the minority of states that still charge a grocery tax.

First Alert 4 found shoppers who would appreciate the tax break.

“I’m currently meal-prepping and spending $300 a week for food,” said Maria Sevier.

Maria Sevier is spending a pretty penny every week to make sure she eats healthy, with some of that money going to the state and local governments.

She would save around $20 a week if the state phases out the grocery tax.

“Yes, make it happen!” said Sevier.

Multiple bills have been filed in Jefferson City this year aiming to get rid of the tax.

One bill from Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, R-Arnold, would rescind the state tax of more than 1%. It would then force counties to completely phase out the tax by 2031.

“Of course, I’d prefer they get rid of it, but we need the taxes to help subsidize a lot of different things,” said Deborah Brown.

Deborah Brown of north St. Louis County says it would help her finances if the tax went away, but she understands cities rely on the tax.

Brentwood Mayor David Dimmitt told First Alert 4 last year his city heavily relies on the tax, and he testified again this year, in opposition.

“You talk about defunding the police, you would see it in action because we would have to lay off police officers,” said Dimmitt.

We compared five local cities’ taxes and how much a family spending $1,000 a month on food could save.

In Brentwood, you’d save $63 a month; in Chesterfield, $53; in O’Fallon, $48 a month; in St. Louis, around $64; and in St. Ann, $71.

Some grocery stores are located in voter-approved taxing districts, meaning even more savings.

“It would mean that we get to save our own money more and that would do a lot for us,” said Malik Jones.

Malik Jones says his family is on a budget and could invest in the stock market.

As for Brown, she’d put the money right back into the economy.

“Other stuff that I need that is more important,” said Brown.

And Sevier is a teacher; she’d look to save for school supplies.

“Books, computers, pencils, everything,” said Sevier.

Illinois just got rid of its state grocery tax, but still allows cities to charge 1%. Looking across the nation, 35 states have completely gotten rid of the tax.

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