WICHITA — On Thursday, the state’s sales tax goes up one cent to 6.3 percent. Wichita State University consumer behavior expert Dotty Harpool said most consumers won’t notice the sales tax increase. However, those consumers who are aware of the increase probably know about the state’s dire financial straits and are willing to accept it, she said. “In today’s economic environment, consumers are a lot more educated on deficits in state and federal deficits and though it’s very painful, maybe this time around, consumers will be a little bit more open to this and a little bit more understanding of why this was done,” she said. Those consumers who make big-ticket purchases will be most affected by the increase, she said. Most businesses aren’t happy with the tax increase but most understand that it’s best for the state, she said.
Tuesday, June 29, 2 p.m.
