As the beginning of the semester approaches for kindergarten and college students alike, retailers are preparing for the rush of back-to-school shopping. Yet, this year’s sales tax holiday has been pushed a week ahead.
Senate Bill 485, led by state Sen. Rodney Ellis from Houston, has set the date to Aug. 9 through 11.
According to the Fort Worth Star Telegram, Ellis said he wanted the weekend moved up because some campuses in the Houston area will start school earlier this year, and the later sales tax date conflicted with the Dallas apparel market for August — when many small retailers buy inventory for the next season.
“SB 485 alleviated the burden of this tough decision for these retailers,” Ellis said. “Furthermore, it will give consumers more time to shop for their students.”
Texas shoppers will save an estimated $78.9 million this year, or 8 percent more than last year, because of the sales tax savings, said R.J. DeSilva, a spokesman for the Texas Comptroller, to the Star Telegram.
“With a growing Texas population, there would be more people taking advantage of this year’s sales tax holiday weekend, hence the higher estimated savings,” DeSilva said.
The sales tax holiday gives Texas shoppers a break from state and local sales taxed on most clothing, footwear, school supplies and backpacks priced less than $100. Shoppers can save up to $8.25 for every $100 they spend.
news@thedailycougar.com