Tonight, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) joined the Senate in passing legislation benefitting businesses against the financial strains caused by the COVID-19 pandemic that he co-sponsored. The legislation takes an important step to benefit businesses by providing them with a tax exemption for purchasing necessary protective equipment to limit the spread of COVID-19.
“At the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, acquiring personal protective equipment like masks and disinfectants was a significant challenge for businesses statewide, especially concerning the financial hit they had to take to keep employees safe,” said Sen. Needleman. “It simply makes sense for us to provide them with some relief against those financial strains. By putting this tax exemption in place for purchase of PPE, we make sure businesses can meet the safety needs of their employees now and in the future without additional tax requirements. I’m glad we can give these businesses some assistance in such a difficult time.”
Senate Bill 711, “An Act Concerning COVID-19 Relief For Small Businesses And Requiring Federal Regulatory Analysis For Proposed State Regulations,” establishes a sales and use tax exemption for small businesses for personal protective equipment used or worn to prevent COVID-19 infection or transmission. Small businesses will need to present certificates at point of sale; “small business” is defined as a business with 100 or fewer full-time employees.
The legislation previously passed the Commerce Committee by a unanimous vote.