Johnson Highlights Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday Returning $11.4M in Savings to Illinoisans

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Working to cut costs for Illinois families and educators statewide, state Rep. Gregg Johnson, D-Rock Island, 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.

“Families across our state have been struggling with the rising costs of everyday items,” said Johnson. “Going into session last spring, we knew that we would have to prioritize cutting costs for working families. The Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday was meant to do just that by providing families with financial relief, as they prepare their children for the upcoming school year.”

The Johnson-supported Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday 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. 2,284 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. 

“While the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday did help Illinoisans save millions of dollars, we know that we need to continue finding ways to cut costs for working families,” said Johnson. “As we prepare for Veto Session, my peers and I will continue fighting for affordable prices and a lower cost of living.”