March 12, 2008

REP. BACKER ANNOUNCES COMMITTEE PASSAGE TO REINSTATE SALES TAX EXEMPTION ON ENERGY STAR APPLIANCES

Representative Terry Backer (D-Stratford) is pleased that a call he made at the State Capitol to  legislative leaders to revive a sales tax holiday on Energy Star-rated appliances has taken a step forward with a favorable vote in the Energy and Technology Committee. SB 505, An Act Concerning A Sales Tax Exemption for Energy Star Appliances, extends the exemption on certain appliances through June 30th, 2009.

"As a member of this important committee, I will continue to work in support of this bill as it moves through the process," Representative Backer said. "Increasing global demand for various fuels, coupled with increasing costs to extract and refine the fuels virtually guarantees the fact that energy costs will continue to rise. Conservation today is key to the long term well-being of our citizens."

Included in the energy package approved by the legislature last year, the sales tax exemption was originally slated to last one year but was reduced to a three-month sales tax holiday in the state's biennial budget. The bill seeks to extend the sales tax exemption through would cost the state a projected $7 million in tax revenue.

Appliances affected by the tax exemption include refrigerators and freezers, washing machines, dishwashers, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, air purifiers, water coolers and battery chargers.

State Representative Terry Backer was first elected to the General Assembly in 1993. He represents the 121st Assembly district and is Assistant Majority Whip. He serves as the Appropriation Committee's Sub-Chair of Conservation & Development, and the Energy and Technology Committee as well as the Environment Committee.