Hanson Applauds Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday Returning $11.4M to Illinoisans

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Working to cut costs for Illinois families and educators statewide, state Rep. Matt Hanson, D-Montgomery, is highlighting $11.4 million in savings returned to Illinoisans as part of this year’s budget-enacted Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, which reduced sales tax on items like school supplies, clothing and footwear this August.

“The main priorities when passing the budget this past May were safeguarding the crucial programs and services in our state and providing financial relief for working families wherever possible,” said Hanson. “The Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday was an overwhelming success. School shopping is an expensive necessity for students, parents, and teachers, so I’m glad that many took advantage of the tax holiday and saved on their back-to-school needs.”

Hanson supported the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday that ran from Aug. 7 to Aug. 16, 2026, waiving the state sales tax online and in-store for Illinoisans buying classroom essentials including clothing, gym shoes and school supplies. Over 2,000 retailers participated. The 10-day tax holiday was initially projected to deliver $10 million in consumer savings—however, new figures from the governor’s office show that Illinoisans ultimately saved $11.4 million. 

“This nationwide affordability crisis is ongoing, and the price of essentials like gas and groceries continue to climb. While we can’t set prices on the shelves, we can focus on the ways that we can bring relief to our communities, regardless of federal decisions. I look forward to continuing these important conversations and prioritizing the needs of the 83rd during the upcoming Veto Session,” said Hanson. 

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