Iowa House Bill HF2627

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/24
• Engrossed: 3/5/24
• Refer: 3/5/24

Caption

A bill for an act exempting the sales price of honey bees from the state sales and use tax.(Formerly HF 676, HF 457.)

Impact

The passage of HF2627 will amend Section 423.3 of the Iowa Code, thereby directly impacting the taxation framework that governs agricultural sales. It specifically addresses the economic activities surrounding beekeeping, enabling producers to retain more revenue by eliminating an additional financial burden imposed by sales tax. The intent is for this change to stimulate growth in the beekeeping sector and related agricultural fields, thereby reinforcing the vitality of Iowa's agrarian economy.

Summary

House File 2627 aims to exempt the sales price of honey bees from the state sales and use tax in Iowa. This legislative act seeks to provide financial relief to beekeepers and promote agricultural practices associated with honey production. By eliminating the sales tax on honey bees, the bill encourages local beekeeping businesses and supports the overall farming economy within the state. The introduction of this bill reflects an increasing recognition of the agricultural value of bees beyond just honey production, emphasizing their critical role in pollination and crop sustainability.

Contention

While supporters of HF2627 argue that the bill represents a necessary step towards supporting local agriculture, potential points of contention may arise regarding the overall impact of tax exemptions on state revenue and whether similar exemptions should be extended to other agricultural products. Critics may express concerns over the precedent this could set for future tax legislation and the equitable treatment of various agricultural sectors within the state.