Rep. Barbara Hernandez Backs Measure to Cut Costs, Eliminate State Grocery Tax

AURORA, Ill. — A measure eliminating the state grocery tax and cutting costs on essential purchases that was backed by state Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, was signed into law on
Monday.

“Nearly every person in our community depends on regular trips to grocery stores, so cutting the state grocery tax will universally benefit Aurorans,” Hernandez said. “Every dollar counts as our state continues to overcome challenges of high costs. I’m happy to put my support behind a measure that directly addresses that problem, and it’s a good day for Aurora when bills like this become laws.”

Continuing to work on cutting costs, Hernandez backed House Bill 3144, which eliminates the 1% state tax on groceries throughout Illinois. It had the support of the Illinois Municipal League and passed the House and Senate with strong bipartisan support.

Hernandez also took steps to cut costs this year by taking steps to make healthcare more affordable, expand childcare programs and offer tax credits to working families. She has also consistently worked to make critical menstrual hygiene products freely available.

“Building a stronger Illinois starts with lowering costs and ensuring a stable economy that works for everybody,” Hernandez said. “When the prices of essential goods and services like prescription drugs, housing and food decline, public safety, education and the economy improve. Eliminating the grocery tax is a step in the right direction, and I will keep fighting for more
progress like this as long as I stand for Aurora in Springfield.”