Most West Virginians probably spend more on food than on gasoline, even with fuel at more than $4 a gallon. That's why a change to occur at the checkout counter next week is so significant.

On Tuesday, the state sales tax on food will decrease by 1 percent, going down to a total of 3 percent.

Not so long ago, in 2005, the food tax was at 6 percent. Then, Gov. Joe Manchin and state legislators implemented a plan to cut it in half, gradually reducing it to the 3 percent level that goes into effect next week.

They were able to do that because of the overall health of the state's economy and the outlook for government revenue. In effect, state government had money to spend - but lawmakers and the governor chose to forgo new projects and programs in order to provide limited tax relief to West Virginia families. The move also helped some businesses in border counties, which have to complete against stores in other states that don't charge sales taxes on food.

Events since 2005 have more than wiped out any financial gain Mountain State residents might have enjoyed from the reduced tax on food. Both fuel and food prices have gone up dramatically, more than the 3 percent sales tax savings. That hits low-income families, who must devote larger percentages of their incomes to food and gasoline, particularly hard.

Still, the tax cuts have helped. The one going into effect Tuesday will help, too.

During Manchin's term in office, he and legislators have cooperated on a variety of tax relief measures that have helped West Virginia families and businesses. They deserve undiluted praise for that.

But the fact that increases in prices for food, fuel and other commodities have wiped out much of the gain resulting from tax relief ought to be a reminder to all in Charleston: Tax relief needs to be a continuing priority for state government.