Governor Parson Applauds General Assembly’s Passage of HB 1, Amendment to Motor Vehicle Sales Tax Allowances

SEPTEMBER 13, 2019

Today, the Missouri Senate unanimously passed HB 1, which will allow the sales proceeds of more than one vehicle to be used as a credit against the sales tax owed on the purchase of a new vehicle. 

The Missouri General Assembly met this week after Governor Mike Parson’s call for a special session to address the issue. 

“We appreciate Representative Ruth and Senator Wallingford's leadership on this issue and are thankful for the overwhelming bipartisan support of the legislature in getting it passed,” Governor Parson said. “They came together and worked hard to make this right for the everyday people of Missouri, and that’s what it’s all about.” 

In Kehlenbrink v. Director of Revenue (SC 97287), the Missouri Supreme Court ruled that the sales proceeds of only one vehicle, trailer, boat, or outboard motor may be used as a credit against the sales tax owed on the purchase of another. 

The legislature’s passage of HB 1 will amend the law to allow for the sale of multiple vehicles to be used as a credit, in line with the Department of Revenue’s prior practice and what consumers have come to expect. Without this amendment, the law would limit Missourians in offsetting their tax liability, creating an unnecessary financial burden for taxpayers. 

“On behalf of the Department of Revenue, I want to express our gratitude to Governor Parson for bringing this issue to the forefront and calling this special session,” Department of Revenue Acting Director Ken Zellers said. “Passage of HB 1 gives clarity to citizens as it was intended by the General Assembly, ensuring hardworking Missourians will continue to enjoy the benefits of tax savings associated with vehicle and titling transactions.” 

“Enforcement of the ruling in my parents’ case would have far-reaching impacts, affecting not only my family but many other families across Missouri,” Scott Kehlenbrink said. “We greatly appreciate Governor Parson’s swift action in calling a special session to address and correct the issue.” 

HB 1 will take effect 90 days after Governor Parson signs the legislation into law.