LOUISIANA — A new bill making waves in Baton Rouge could mean big savings at the checkout line for Louisiana families.
House Bill 229 (HB 229), introduced by Representative Danny McCormick, is pushing to eliminate local sales tax on groceries—a move that would align local tax laws with the state’s existing exemption for food purchased for home use.
Under current law, while the state of Louisiana does not charge sales tax on groceries, local parishes and cities still do. That means even your milk, bread, and canned goods might be quietly taxed at the local level. HB 229 aims to change that once and for all.
“This bill is about fairness,” Rep. McCormick said. “If the state can recognize groceries as essential, local governments should too. Families shouldn’t be taxed for putting food on the table.”
If passed, the bill would exempt the following items from local sales tax:
Food for home consumption Dairy products Soft drinks Packaged foods Fruits and vegetables
Supporters argue the change could save Louisiana households hundreds of dollars per year, especially in areas where local tax rates are high.
Critics, however, say it could strip municipalities of a key revenue source unless state lawmakers find ways to fill the gap.
The bill is currently being reviewed by the House Committee on Ways and Means. If it gains traction, it could hit the House floor for a vote in the coming weeks.
Bottom line? If HB 229 passes, your grocery receipt might look a little lighter—and your wallet a little heavier.
Stay with Love Shreveport-Bossier for real-time updates as this legislation moves forward.
