State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro (R-Hanover Park) is fighting to change that with her legislation, HB1905, which would create a 7-day sales tax holiday on essential school supplies during the first week of August each year. The bill would provide real savings on items like backpacks, notebooks, calculators, pencils, and more—putting money back into the pockets of hardworking Illinois families.
"Families are being taxed at every turn, and back-to-school season shouldn't be another financial hit," said Rep. Sanalitro. "Illinois should be making it easier for parents to set their students up for success. My legislation is a common-sense and simple way to help Illinois families, and it's time for lawmakers to act."
Despite broad support from parents and the success of similar programs across the country, HB1905 still hasn’t been called for a hearing in the Illinois House.
Meanwhile, Florida, Ohio, Texas, Missouri and other states listed below have already put tax relief in motion for their residents:
- Alabama: July 18-20.
- Arkansas: August 2-3.
- Connecticut: August 17-23.
- Florida: August 1-31.
- Iowa: August 1-2.
- Maryland: August 10-16.
- Massachusetts: August 9-10.
- Mississippi: July 11-13.
- Missouri: August 1-3.
- New Mexico: July 25-27.
- Ohio: August 1-14.
- Oklahoma: August 1-3.
- South Carolina: August 1-3.
- Tennessee: July 25-27.
- Texas: August 8-10.
- Virginia: August 1-3.
- West Virginia: August 1-4.
Rep. Sanalitro is urging legislative leaders to bring HB1905 forward for consideration before another school year passes without relief. She is also raising awareness for the proposal through her 3rd annual Back-2-School Supply Drive running from August 1st through August 15th. More details on her efforts can be found HERE.
Other House Republican members hosting back to school supply drives in their communities include Representatives Jackie Haas, Nicole La Ha, Patrick Sheehan, and Travis Weaver.