The Senate gave its approval Wednesday to House Bill 1003 which gives the American Legion an exemption from state sales tax. Senate Appropriations Chairman Roger Thompson and House Majority Leader Mike Sanders are the authors of the measure.
“Twice this session, members of the Legislature, Governor Stitt and Lt. Governor Pinnell have gathered to honor Oklahoma’s veterans. With the passage of this bill, we follow our words with actions, supporting the American Legion which provides so much support to our veterans every day of the year,” said Thompson.
The Blue Star Mothers and Veterans of Foreign Wars already have the sales tax exemption.
“The American Legion has been in Oklahoma for 100 years serving our state veterans and their families as well as our youth through a variety of patriotic education programs and outreach ministries,” said Sanders. “The Legion also promotes a mission of strong national security. I’m glad to finally give them the same tax-exempt status that other organizations with similar missions already have.”
It’s estimated the tax break will cost the state $287,000.
