Taxes – Wayne Harper for State Senate

I want to set the record straight: there is nothing nefarious about tax cuts. I have been leading the charge on tax cuts for many years, saving Utah families and businesses billions of dollars.

Here are some of my key achievements:

Chaired the committee that reorganized and simplified the state tax code: By streamlining the tax code, businesses can now focus more on their operations and less on navigating complex tax compliance requirements, making Utah a more business-friendly state.
Voted to reduce sales tax on food: Lowering the sales tax on food helps reduce the cost of living for all Utahns, ensuring that families can keep more of their hard-earned money.
Advocated and voted for bills that reduced the state income tax rate from 7% to now 4.55%: Since 2007, I have been a strong advocate for lowering the state income tax rate, which has provided significant financial relief to Utah families and has made our state more competitive.
Ran the bill to exempt military retirement income from state sales tax: I am proud to have authored legislation that exempts military retirement income from state taxes, recognizing the sacrifices of our veterans and providing them with well-deserved financial relief.
Sponsored bills to reduce state income tax on social security income: I have consistently worked to reduce the tax burden on our seniors by sponsoring and supporting legislation that lowers state income taxes on social security income.
Voted to reduce the state property tax rate: Lower property taxes mean more affordable homeownership and less financial strain on property owners across Utah.
Ran bills to improve property tax assessment and collection transparency: I have championed legislation to make property tax assessments and collections more transparent, uniform, clear, and fairer, ensuring that taxpayers understand and trust the process.
Voted to reduce the motor fuel tax rate in 2023: Lowering the motor fuel tax rate helps reduce transportation costs for individuals and businesses, contributing to overall economic growth.

For 2025, I have bill files being drafted to:

Eliminate all state income taxes on social security retirement income: I am working on legislation to completely eliminate state income taxes on social security retirement income, providing significant relief to our retirees.
Improve the local property tax system and eliminate surprises in assessment: My upcoming bills aim to reform the local property tax system, ensuring that assessments are fair and predictable, reducing unexpected financial burdens on property owners.
Provide property tax relief: I am committed to finding ways to provide property tax relief to Utah residents, making homeownership more affordable and sustainable.
Further reduce the state income tax rate: Continuing my efforts to reduce the state income tax rate, I am working on legislation that will further lower taxes, allowing Utahns to keep more of their income.

I listen to and represent you! My commitment and record are clear. I will continue to be your champion on Capitol Hill.