Rutigliano Calls for Elimination of Sales Tax of Personal Protection Equipment

HARTFORD- With the governor calling on all state residents to wear face masks in all public places to curb the spread of the Coronavirus, State Rep. David Rutigliano (R-123) is calling for a repeal of the state sales tax on face masks and other personal protection products, like face shields and latex/rubber gloves.

“It’s just wrong that state government is collecting tax revenue from residents on what has become personal protection products that we all need,” said Rep. Rutigliano. “State government should NOT be boosting tax collections due to a pandemic and citizens doing their best to maintain public health protocols.”

In 2019, Rep. Rutigliano voted against a final state budget document proposed by legislative Democrats and Governor Lamont, which included several new tax increases ($1.75 Billion in total over the two-year budget) including the repeal of the tax-exemption of safety apparel that subjected many pieces of safety gear to state sales tax.

This means that mandated face masks, which clearly fall under the definition of ‘safety apparel’, are now subject to state sales tax. Here is the list of “safety apparel” – which includes face masks, face shields and gloves.

Rep. Rutigliano said, “To further add insult to the issue facemasks and other person protection products remained taxable even during this year’s statewide ‘Tax Free Week’.”