The Missouri Senate passed legislation that would allow voters in Jackson, Clay, Platte, and Cass counties decide whether to establish a sales tax up to one-quarter percent to support the Kansas City Zoo.

The Missouri Senate is debating a bill to enact a “Fair Tax” that would phase out the state income tax over several years and replace it with a sales tax as high as 7 percent.

A new bill called the Fair Taxation Bill has been introduced to the Missouri House of Representatives for the November election.  If passed, the bill would eliminate the income tax and replace it with a sales tax of 5.11 percent on retail sales and taxable services.

Missouri Rep. Ed Emery has reintroduced a bill (HJR56) to eliminate the state’s complicated income and corporate taxes and move to a broader sales tax on goods and services of 5.11%.

As of 8 November 2009 Missouri is now imposing a 4 percent sales tax on yoga and Pilates class fees.  The tax stems from an existing statute imposed on amusement, entertainment or recreation, including athletic events.

The Missouri Supreme Court ruled that a private jail facility’s purchases, such as meals and clothing for inmates, are subject to sales tax because the municipalities sending the inmates to jail are not eligible for a tax exemption.

Missouri Revised Statues Section 144.526.1 created the “Show Me Green Sales Tax Holiday.” Beginning in 2009, during a seven day period starting on April 19th and ending April 25th, sales of qualifying Energy Star certified new appliances will be exempt from state sales tax. Local jurisdictions can also choose to participate in the Show Me Green Sales Tax Holiday.