TRENTON, N.J. — One year after the repeal of New Jersey’s back-to-school sales tax holiday, Sen. Carmen Amato (R-9) is renewing efforts to bring the program back, citing financial strain on parents, teachers, and students.
“Taking away this critical tax relief has only made it harder for New Jersey families to afford their children’s education,” said Sen. Amato. “Reinstating the back-to-school sales tax holiday is a simple, common-sense step that provides much-needed relief to families and educators.”
The sales tax holiday, previously in place during the back-to-school season, was eliminated by Gov. Phil Murphy as part of last year’s state budget negotiations. Reports estimate its repeal forced families and educators to pay about $35 million more in state taxes during the 2024 end-of-summer shopping season.
“With new tax hikes, the threat of even higher property taxes, and an affordability crisis that is out of control, it’s time for Trenton to reduce the burden on households and start putting taxpayers first,” Amato said.
Amato’s bill, S-3654, would reinstate the tax holiday annually from Aug. 1 through Sept. 30. Items exempt from sales tax under the proposal would include:
- Computers priced under $3,000 each
- School computer supplies under $1,000 each
- School and art supplies
- Instructional materials
