By By Lydia Grimes – features reporter
With many citizens at opposing ends of the argument, the possible end to sales tax on grocery items in Alabama may be a moot point.
The food tax bill is in the 2008 regular legislative session that is down to its final few days. That is typically the time when there is more pressure to pass noncontroversial local bills than major changes to the state's tax code.
On April 15, the Alabama House of Representatives approved a bill, which would remove all state sales tax on groceries. The House voted 53-38 in favor of dropping the tax.
Most people are aware of the possibility of such an amendment, but the average person is more concerned about the price of gasoline and just how high it will go.
With the possibility of the amendment going before the people for a vote, citizens continue to debate the pros and cons of the issue.
Those who gather at local eating spots around town have their opinion of the new proposal.
Obediah Riley said he is not worried about it.
Others gathered at the local spot had different opinions on the matter.
Darroll Rabon said he is all for bringing down the cost of something.
Jerry Coleman said the state will get their money one way or the other.
Wilburn Perry said he had given some consideration of the idea and has mixed emotions on whether the amendment will pass.
Henry Uptagraft is skeptical as well.
Johnny Harris, a cook at an East Brewton restaurant, made his way from the kitchen to express his opinion on the subject. .
Former Florida residents, Joe and Norene Beyer, said they are aware of how things work in a state that doesn't have grocery taxes in place.
If the amendment passes the final stages, citizens in the state will be voting on the issue before it becomes law.
That outcome wouldn't be known until after the November election.
Government officals will have to make a decision before the people can voice their choice.