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Senator Pam Helming announced Tuesday that she has introduced legislation to create a "Back to School Sales Tax Holiday." Specifically, this legislation (S.6659) establishes a one-week period each year beginning on the Tuesday before Labor Day and ending on Labor Day when school supplies, including computer hardware and software, are exempt from sales tax.

"Back to school shopping used to mean buying notebooks, erasers, and perhaps a new pair of shoes. Today, it often means purchasing software, computers, calculators, and other electronics students use everyday to complete their school work. Many states across the country offer sales tax holidays just in time for back to school shopping. This is a terrific way to cut down on costs for educators and families and to help local businesses. The number one concern I hear in the community is the need to make New York more affordable for working families--this bill helps to accomplish this goal. It is my hope that this legislation will provide families and educators with an opportunity to purchase tax free school supplies that are necessary to help our children learn, grow, and succeed, Helming said.

"Households across Upstate face steep challenges dealing with New York's high taxes. Unshackle Upstate appreciates Senator Helming's efforts to provide relief for families as they prepare for the upcoming school year. We also thank her for being a consistent advocate for ending Albany's high tax and spend culture, providing permanent relief for all New York taxpayers and businesses." Michael Kracker, Executive Director of Unshackle Upstate .

"Sales tax holidays are a great way for small businesses to stand out. States across the nation utilize sales tax holidays to give consumers a break and highlight local, independent retail. NFIB applauds Senator Helming for advancing this legislation and encourages all New Yorkers to "shop small" this back-to-school season," said Greg Biryla, NFIB's New York State Director.

Currently, New York provides for a sales tax exemption on clothing and footwear purchases under $110. This legislation would offer a one-week sales tax holiday on other items, specifically, school supplies or items commonly used by a student in a course of study which include, but are not limited to, book bags or backpacks, books, computer hardware and software, pens, pencils, highlighters crayons, markers, erasers, index cards, paper, notebooks, binders, folders, scissors, rulers and calculators.

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