RI Senate Approves Bill Eliminating Sales Tax On Face Masks

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — The Rhode Island Senate on Tuesday passed a bill which eliminates the sales tax on face masks sold throughout the state.

"As much as we all want it to end, the COVID-19 pandemic is still with us, and we must make it as easy as possible for our residents to protect themselves from the virus," said state Sen. Valarie Dawson (D-East Providence), who sponsored the bill. "Since there is only so much supply of free masks, we have to remove the barriers to wearing these masks effectively, which means using them once as intended. By removing the sales tax on these items, we can ease the financial cost for families protecting themselves and their loved ones from COVID-19."

If the bill (2022-S 2065) becomes law, it will amend current state law by including cloth or disposable face masks and facial coverings sold at retail stores to the public under the "clothing" statute in the state's tax laws. Enacted in 2012, Rhode Island exempts sales tax on clothing and shoes up to $250.

The bill now heads to the House for consideration where state Rep. Gregg Amore (D-East Providence) has introduced the legislation (2022-H 7391).