REITZ announces sales tax relief for Illinois families

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[This week, state Rep. Dan REITZ (D-Steeleville) announced plans to help parents save money on back-to-school shopping through a sales tax holiday on clothing and school supplies for a period of 10 days in August.

"The working families in my district are facing the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression and for many it is a daily struggle just to make ends meet," said Rentz. "Record unemployment coupled with high taxes and monthly bills have kept parents from being able to afford even the most basic necessities for their children. Among these are back-to-school supplies and clothing, which every child should have. A sales tax holiday will be critical to helping these families send their children back to school prepared."

Senate Bill 3658 provides for a sales tax holiday on clothing and school supplies from August 6, 2010, until August 15, 2010. The sales tax on these items will be drastically reduced from 6.25% to just 1.25%. The legislation is expected to significantly boost sales before the upcoming school year, as back-to-school spending has slipped in the last few years. Rentz believes the tax holiday will be a boon to local businesses by encouraging families to get out and shop in local stores.

"A sales tax holiday will not only save consumers money, but equally as important, it will provide a much-needed boost to our economy as people take advantage of reduced costs," Rentz said. "Creating jobs and supporting businesses in Illinois is critical to restoring economic stability, and I will continue to do everything I can to stimulate our economy and look out for the hardworking families of my district."

Senate Bill 3658 passed both Houses and now awaits the governor's approval.

For more information about Senate Bill 3658, please call Rep. Rentz district office at (618) 443-5757.