After reviewing unprocessed returns and approximating the full amounts of partial payments, HdL estimates that once all returns are properly processed and the data adjusted to reflect actual quarter receipts, statewide local sales and use tax revenues will be 1.6% higher than second quarter 2017.
Sales of building and construction materials, jet fuel and online shopping appear to have been the primary drivers of statewide growth during the second quarter. Auto sales leveled off as previously anticipated although receipts from auto leases continued to show substantial gains. Online fulfillment centers and value themed apparel stores were the primary gainers within the general consumer goods group. Business-industrial purchases were slightly lower than previous quarters with declines in new energy projects being a major factor. Regionally, the San Francisco Bay area and the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valley areas outperformed the rest of the state.
