Residential Energy Sales Tax Will Be Eliminated This Thursday

Rockland Daily Staff

The elimination of Rockland's Residential Energy Sales Tax goes into effect this Thursday, December 1. 

The cancellation of the tax should save county taxpayers an estimated $4 million this winter and nearly $12 million annually. The move comes not a minute too soon as far as Rockland homeowners are concerned. The cost of heating homes with gas or oil is expected to increase by 30% this winter.

"As families continue to face increasing energy costs this heating season, I'm proud that my administration and the Legislature collaborated to eliminate the energy sales tax, which is equivalent to an 8.4% county property tax reduction," Rockland County Executive Ed Day said. "I pledge to continue finding ways to lighten the load for families as best as we can." 

Elimination of the tax fulfills a commitment made by the County Legislature and the County Executive last year when the 2022 County Budget was amended, adopted, and signed. 

The residential energy sales tax applied to all sources of energy, including natural gas, propane, and home heating oil, as well as electricity, including electricity used for heat, to keep the lights on, and any other uses. 

"It's important to note that even with these deep cuts, County services to residents and businesses remain strong," Budget & Finance Committee Chairman Legislator Aron Wieder said. "In particular, when it comes to the elimination of the residential energy sales tax, it will bring real relief to families this winter."