Idaho House Committee Says Girls Scouts Can Get Tax Break

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Idaho Girl Scouts could keep more dough on each box of Thin Mints and Tagalongs they sell under legislation advanced by a House committee. The House Revenue and Tax Committee passed a bill Monday exempting the youth leadership group's cookie program from the state sales tax.

That tax — now at 22 cents per box — generates about $140,000 annually. About 40 girl scouts and troop leaders showed up to the hearing to plead their case. Nine-year-old Ella Marcum, a first year scout, said the cookie program helps her set goals and has boosted her confidence.

If approved, Girl Scout lobbyist Julie Hart said Idaho troops would keep cookie prices at $3.75 per box, while directing the added proceeds to support scholarships to help low-income girls take part in organization.