NY solar tax break, E-cigarette ban in 2013

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) -- New York state laws banning sales of electronic cigarettes to minors and giving businesses new tax exemptions for installing solar energy systems are set to take effect next week.

In 2013, New Yorkers will also calculate state income taxes owed based on the new rates that took effect in 2012, while payroll deductions could change again based on a cost-of-living index adjustment in the law.

The ban on sales to those under 18 of E-cigarettes, battery-powered devices used to inhale vaporized liquid nicotine instead of tobacco smoke, is effective Jan. 1.

At the same time, sales and installations of commercial solar units will become exempt from the 4 percent state sales and use tax. The law lets cities and counties do the same. It follows the 2005 tax exemption for residential systems.