Rep. Jim Lilly today led Michigan House approval of a bipartisan plan to make personal protective equipment and disinfecting products more affordable and widely distributed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The legislation benefits workplaces that already have bought and continue to buy the material due to COVID and requirements imposed by state government. The plan sponsored by Lilly, R-Park Township, and Rep. Sarah Anthony, D-Lansing, would exempt these purchases from Michigan’s 6 percent sales and use tax for employers with COVID-19 safety protocol plans.

“Over the past year, job providers all across Michigan have faced unprecedented challenges simply to stay in business and keep their doors open,” Lilly said. “The cost of personal protective equipment to keep their employees and customers safe is part of that challenge. With this legislation, we have a fantastic opportunity to help. Keeping people safe should not be a barrier to keep a business open, earning a living, and keeping our economy and communities strong.”

Currently, personal protective equipment typically used in manufacturing operations is already exempt from sales and use tax. The new bipartisan legislation would extend the exemption to PPE and supplies related to COVID-19.

The Small Business Association of Michigan, Michigan Retailers Association, Michigan Manufacturers Association, Detroit Regional Chamber and several other chambers of commerce across the state have stated support for the plan.

House Bills 4224-25 advance to the Senate for further consideration.