Starting Thursday, residents of Oklahoma will see a reduction in the cost of certain groceries as the state grocery tax is set to be eliminated.
Grocery stores like The Market at Eastpoint are getting ready for the upcoming change that aims to make fresh produce and other essential groceries more accessible to the public. This change involves the elimination of the 4.5% state tax, which will help reduce the cost for customers.
“Our customers will receive almost $1 for every $20 they spend,” explained Marc Jones, director of jobs at RestoreOKC. He expressed excitement about the upcoming implementation of this program at the end of the month, especially because many of their shoppers rely on EBTs or other benefits that often run low towards the end of the month. Jones emphasized that this gesture of providing them with a gift during this time is truly wonderful.”
Grocery stores have begun reprogramming their systems to ensure that they can accommodate the recently implemented tax cut. Moreover, they are fully prepared to inform and educate their customers about the specific items that will be exempt from taxation.
Jones confidently stated, “We will greet them with a warm smile and assure them that their receipt may appear lower than expected, but it is indeed accurate.”
The cost of traditional food items and ingredients like vegetables, uncooked meats, and baby food will be reduced, while items such as rotisserie chicken, toiletries, and vitamins will continue to be subjected to taxation.
According to the state, the average Oklahoma family could potentially save approximately $650 per year as a result of this tax cut.
Shoppers should take note that city and county taxes will still be applicable.