Kansas House GOp Uncertain About Sales Tax Proposal

Kansas House Republicans acknowledge they’re split over canceling a planned decline in the state sales tax.

Several Republicans said Thursday they’re willing to consider the idea if it allows the state to pursue more cuts in personal income taxes. But House Taxation Committee Chairman Richard Carlson says the proposal is unlikely to pass.

The 6.3 percent sales tax is set to drop to 5.7 percent in July.

The proposal to cancel it is part of Gov. Sam Brownback’s plan for following up on massive personal income tax cuts enacted last year. He wants to stabilize the budget while phasing in additional income tax rate reductions over the next four years.

House Speaker Ray Merrick also doubts Brownback’s proposal will pass but says he’s counting votes.