HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) One of the exemptions from Connecticut's sales tax that was eliminated in 2011 is back on the books.

As of Wednesday, consumers will no longer have to pay a 6.35 percent tax on nonprescription medications.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy first proposed eliminating the tax exemption to help cover a massive state budget deficit. Nonprescription medications, such as vitamins, antihistamines, antacids and pain relievers, were among a host of previously non-taxable goods and services that were subjected to the state's sales and use tax.

But the Democrat proposed reinstating the exemption in a bill he introduced and later signed last year. He said Wednesday the exemption will help residents save money, stay healthy and improve their quality of life.

Prescription medications were already exempt from the sales tax.