Arizona State Representative Chris Lopez has introduced a bill aimed at removing state sales tax on essential ranching infrastructure, such as fence lines, drinking troughs, water lines, and storage tanks. The proposed legislation is intended to support Arizona ranchers by reducing their costs and potentially easing beef prices for consumers.
“Families are paying more for beef every time they check out at the grocery store,” said Representative Lopez. “Ranchers are facing higher costs just to keep cattle fenced and hydrated, and Arizona is taxing those costs. That cost gets passed straight to consumers.”
Currently, when ranchers make improvements on federal grazing land—such as installing fences or water systems—the ownership of these assets transfers to the federal government once installed. Despite this transfer, Arizona continues to apply state sales tax to these purchases, and ranchers do not receive reimbursement after ownership changes hands.
“At a time when federal land policies already make ranching harder, Arizona should not be adding another layer of cost,” Representative Lopez said.
Lopez’s bill seeks to eliminate the tax on grazing improvements in order to lower operating expenses for ranchers who manage public lands, contribute to wildlife habitat conservation, and supply beef within the state.
Carbone, a Republican elected in 2023, currently represents Arizona’s 25th House District following Michelle Udall’s tenure.
