The bill amends Section 44-18-18 of the General Laws regarding sales and use taxes in the state. It introduces a new provision that imposes a sales tax on the purchase of animals from a breeder, which is a significant addition to the existing tax framework. The sales tax rate remains at six percent (6%) of the gross receipts from retail sales or rental charges, with a temporary increase to seven percent (7%) starting July 1, 1990. The bill also clarifies that the sales tax on rental charges applies only to the first thirty consecutive calendar days of each rental period and excludes rentals covered by a written lease of twelve months or more.
The act is designed to take effect immediately upon passage, thereby allowing the state to begin collecting sales tax on animal purchases from breeders without delay. This change reflects an effort to broaden the tax base and ensure that sales tax is applied consistently across various retail transactions, including those involving animals.