Summary: Governor Maura Healey proposed eliminating the sales tax exemption on candy in Massachusetts to potentially increase revenue and improve public health. Candy is currently considered a grocery item and is not subject to sales tax, but under the proposed budget, candy would be taxed while sugar and sugar-based products would remain exempt. The revenue generated from the candy tax is expected to be around $25 million, a small portion of the overall $60 billion budget.
Massachusetts Considers Taxing Candy to Sweeten State Budget
In a recent budget proposal unveiled by Governor Maura Healey, the state of Massachusetts is contemplating a change that could impact the sweet tooth of its residents. The proposal suggests eliminating the sales tax exemption on candy, a move that could potentially raise revenue and promote public health.
Currently, candy is classified as a grocery item in Massachusetts, making it exempt from sales tax—unlike sugary beverages which are often taxed in many states. However, under Healey’s budget plan, candy would no longer enjoy this exemption, while sugar and sugar-based products would remain untaxed. This shift could mean that your favorite chocolate bar or gummy bears might come with a slightly higher price tag in the future.
The idea of taxing candy is not just about filling the state’s coffers; it’s also about promoting healthier choices. Evan Horowitz, the executive director of the Center for State Policy Analysis at Tufts University, noted that the anticipated revenue from the candy tax—around $25 million— is a small fraction of the overall budget. This suggests that the primary aim of the proposal is to support public health initiatives rather than solely boost revenue.
The proposal has sparked conversations about similar initiatives in other states. Currently, 15 states, including nearby Maine and New York, already tax candy. In some states, like Illinois, the presence of flour in a treat determines its tax status. Furthermore, discussions around taxing sugary drinks have also gained traction in Massachusetts, with the Boston City Council exploring the possibility to improve public health and generate additional funds.
As the debate unfolds, residents are expressing skepticism about the potential changes. Any decision to impose new taxes on candy or sugary beverages would require approval from state lawmakers on Beacon Hill. The upcoming hearing will shed more light on the issue, and any proposed changes would need to navigate a complex legislative process before becoming law.
In the midst of these discussions, Governor Healey emphasizes the need to find innovative ways to fund essential services, like snow plowing, without burdening residents with excessive taxes. While nobody enjoys taxes, the proposed candy tax might just be the start of a broader conversation about balancing fiscal responsibilities with public health goals.
With the future of candy taxation hanging in the balance, residents and policymakers alike are bracing for potential changes to their favorite sweet indulgences. As the debate rages on, one thing is certain—Massachusetts is in for a bittersweet decision that could impact both wallets and waistlines alike.
