FRANKFORT (Kentucky Today) – State Rep. Beverly Chester-Burton, D-Shively, has filed House Bill 175, which would give Kentucky families a break on essential purchases as they prepare for the new school year.
The proposal, known as a sales tax holiday in those states where it has been enacted, would eliminate state sales tax on many clothing and personal items during a designated weekend each August.
Chester-Burton said the goal is to help families stretch their dollars at a time when the cost of living continues to rise. “Every Kentucky family feels the strain of higher prices, especially when school starts back and the list of things children need keeps getting longer. A sales tax holiday puts meaningful savings directly into parents’ pockets. It’s a simple, practical way we can lower costs and make life a little easier.”
Under the bill, items such as clothing and everyday personal goods would be tax-free as long as they fall under specific price limits. Most clothing items up to $200 each would qualify, while other eligible items would be tax-free up to $3,000. The exemption would apply to purchases made in stores and online.
Chester-Burton said many states already offer a similar tax holiday, and Kentucky should not be left behind. “Families in neighboring states get this break every year. Kentucky families deserve the same opportunity to save, especially now, when every dollar matters,” she said.
The neighboring states of Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee and West Virginia, all have a sales tax holiday for back to school purchases,
If enacted, Kentucky’s sales tax holiday would begin at 12:01 a.m. on the first Friday of each August and end at midnight the following Sunday. The first holiday under the bill would take place this year August 7–9.
Chester-Burton noted that the holiday, which has already received bipartisan support, would also support local businesses. “When families have a little extra buying power, they spend it close to home. This is a win for parents, for students, and for businesses across Kentucky.”
