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Bill

Bill

A 2217

Exempts sales of bottled water from sales and use taxes

2025 Regular Session Introduced by William Colton and 2 co-sponsors

New York bill would eliminate sales tax on bottled water purchases, reducing state revenue while potentially lowering consumer costs for the product.

REFERRED TO WAYS AND MEANS
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Bill Summary · A 2217

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 2217 would exempt sales of bottled water from New York's sales and use taxes. This means consumers would no longer pay sales tax when purchasing bottled water at retail locations. The bill has been referred to the Ways and Means Committee for consideration.

Why is this important

Sales tax exemptions reduce state revenue while potentially lowering consumer costs for a specific product. Bottled water is a significant consumer good, making this exemption financially meaningful to both household budgets and state fiscal planning. The policy raises questions about which products deserve tax-exempt status and the state's priorities regarding public health, environmental sustainability, and revenue collection.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: Removing sales tax on bottled water would decrease state tax revenue, requiring either budget cuts elsewhere or tax increases on other items
  • Environmental concerns: Critics may argue the exemption incentivizes plastic bottle consumption when reusable water alternatives exist, conflicting with climate and sustainability goals
  • Equity of exemptions: Questions about why bottled water deserves exemption while other beverages (soda, juice, milk) remain taxed, and whether this is regressive or progressive policy
  • Definition challenges: The bill may need clarification on what qualifies as "bottled water" versus other beverages or water-based products

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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