A bill that would allow Jackson residents to consider raising sales taxes has stalled at the state Capitol, while other legislation that would allow alcohol to be served in Flowood and Pearl advanced.
House Bill 1622 failed to gain enough support Tuesday in the Senate Finance Committee. Supporters said they will reintroduce the measure in another committee to try to keep it alive as the 2009 legislative session continues.
The bill would have allowed the city of Jackson to seek voter endorsement to add a 1 percent sales tax on all items except hotels, restaurants, groceries, prescription drugs and purchases of large equipment such as vehicles and farm equipment.
Raising sales taxes would have required at least 60 percent of Jackson voters’ support, according to the legislation.
Magnolia Tribune
