State Senator Thomas A. Colapietro
July 5, 2007
Colapietro Reminds Retailers, Consumers of New State Sales Tax Exemption
State Senator Thomas Colapietro (D-Bristol), co-chair of the General Assembly's General Law Committee, today reminded retailers and consumers that household appliances that meet federal Energy Star requirements are exempt from the state sales tax until September 30, 2007.
"I'm not sure that the message has gotten out about this exemption," said Senator Colapietro, who recently went to purchase a new Energy Star washing machine but found that the retailer was not aware of the exemption.
"This is a break for consumers who make the responsible choice to purchase an energy efficient appliance, and it's a break for people who want to buy these appliances but can't always afford them," Senator Colapietro said. "It's important that consumers are aware of this so that they don't get overcharged, and it's important that retailers are aware of this so that they aren't charging sales tax where it's unnecessary."
The exemption was part of the landmark energy bill, House Bill 7432, approved by the state legislature and signed into law during the 2007 regular legislative session. It was effective at the governor's signing of the bill on June 4, 2007.
While the exemption for appliances next year, some items are permanently exempt from the state sales tax, including compact fluorescent light bulbs; Energy Star-rated insulation, programmable thermostats, and gas furnaces; and oil furnaces and burners that are 84 percent or more efficient.
Energy Star rated appliances use 10 to 15 percent less energy and water than standard appliances. Energy Star products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines as set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the federal Department of Energy.
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