Assemblyman Brian Manktelow (R,C,I-Lyons) joined his Assembly Minority colleagues today for a press conference calling for the passing of the ‘Inflation Relief & Consumer Assistance Plan’ (A.8481). The proposal would suspend the state sales tax for two years. On an array of goods most important to consumers, including gas, cleaning supplies, prepared foods and housekeeping items. Inflation rates are at a 40-year high, with energy bills having gone up by nearly 30 percent, used cars by nearly 40 percent and gas by nearly 50 percent in the last year alone. The plan would save taxpayers $2.6 billion annually.

“The pandemic isn’t the only thing ruining lives. This record high inflation we are currently experiencing is a dream crusher,” said Manktelow. “People are unable to move forward with buying homes, better vehicles, going on vacations or even splurging on little luxuries like going out to eat because the price of everyday necessities is astronomical. It is time we give all New Yorkers a bit of a break by halting state sales tax on items such as fuel, prepared foods, housekeeping supplies and personal care products. This will greatly help senior citizens on fixed incomes, single income households, single parent households and all New Yorkers. If this pan is not passed then we need to consider a zero percent increase in the budget and cut back on our state’s spending. Something needs to give. We cannot continue to live like this.”