Kansas House approves tax relief, cut in grocery tax

The Republican-controlled Kansas House has approved GOP income tax relief proposals and a small cut in the state’s sales tax on groceries.

The vote Friday was 76-43 on a bill aimed at preventing individuals and businesses from paying more state income taxes because of changes in federal tax laws at the end of 2017.

The measure also would drop the sales tax on groceries to 5.5 percent from 6.5 percent and includes provisions to increase tax collections from internet sales.

The Senate approved the bill last month but without the sales tax provisions. Senators expect to decide next week whether to accept the House’s changes or force negotiations.

GOP leaders contend the bill prevents a tax increase but Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said lawmakers should stabilize the budget first.