Tallahassee legislators are considering repealing the sales tax exemption on religious items as they grapple with an expected $5-6 billion state budget deficit for the 2009-2010 budget year. The House Finance and Tax Council heard testimony this week. Urging the tax exemption stand for the sale of religious items, including Bibles, Florida Baptist Convention legislative consultant Bill Bunkley says during tough economic times:

 “personal faith and inspiration and instruction that comes from faith-based religious publications – including the Bible, hymnals and other books of faith – are essential resources to Floridians.”

He also pointed out due to the Legislature’s recent cuts in social services, there is more demand on churches to serve those in need.