CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A newly introduced bill in the West Virginia House of Delegates would eliminate the state’s personal income tax and replace that revenue by increasing the consumer sales tax to 8%.
House Bill 5598, introduced during the 2026 Regular Session, proposes raising the state’s general consumer sales and service tax from 6% to 8%.
At the same time, the bill would repeal dozens of sections of state code that govern West Virginia’s personal income tax, effectively eliminating the income tax entirely.
What Would Change
If passed, consumers would pay 8 cents on every dollar spent on taxable goods and services, up from the current 6 cents.
Gasoline and special fuel taxes would remain unchanged at 5%.
The proposal outlines updated tax calculation methods to reflect the higher rate, including rounding procedures and fractional sales calculations.
Major Tax Policy Shift
The bill represents a significant shift in how West Virginia would collect revenue, moving away from taxing personal income and toward a consumption-based tax model.
Supporters of similar tax structures often argue that eliminating income tax can attract residents and businesses, while critics typically raise concerns about the impact higher sales taxes may have on lower-income households.
House Bill 5598 has been referred to the House Finance Committee for further consideration.
