Authorizes a state sales tax exemption for food

SB 688 exempts most retail food sales from Missouri's state sales tax, effective October 1, 1997 (as stated in the bill text). It specifically covers food eligible for federal food stamps under 7 U.S.C. § 2012, including items from vending machines. The exemption excludes restaurants and similar establishments where over 80% of revenue comes from prepared food for immediate consumption (e.g., fast food, cafés). Revenue that would have been collected from these sales is redirected to school district funds. This policy change directly affects grocery stores and retailers selling qualifying food items, while excluding most dine-in or take-out food services.