LANSING, Michigan (WILX) – Back to school season has begun and some families are finding it difficult to afford the rising prices of school supplies.

State lawmakers are considering a tax exemption that would allow parents and students to purchase back-to-school supplies without paying a 6% sales tax.

It may be too late for back-to-school, but Michigan lawmakers are considering a decision that could provide financial relief for many families across the state next year.

Venus Henderson-Hughes is shopping for three children. “So I approach it with an open mind. If it doesn’t fit our budget, we don’t buy it.”

Parents like her could save a lot of money on school supplies if Michigan passes the back-to-school tax holiday. On the third Saturday and Sunday in August, families could then purchase all their school supplies, clothing and other items tax-free.

Amy Drumm, senior vice president of government affairs at the Michigan Retailers Association, said this tax break could become a reality as early as next year and is an important step by the state to reduce the financial burden on working families.

“The key is to make sure it’s easy to implement and that there’s enough time to integrate the changes and prepare the POS systems and staff,” Drumm said.

Drumm says: “There is currently a reluctance to spend money among both retailers and consumers.”

She said: “Putting more money in people’s pockets so they can buy the things they need, provide for their families and put food on the table is critical to moving the economy forward.”

Drumm described the proposed back-to-school tax exemption as a relief for families faced with the rising cost of school supplies.

“So when we look at the sales tax-exempt provisions in Ohio, we’ll find that they actually generate more sales tax revenue for the state because people then spend the money they save elsewhere.”

Michigan would join more than a dozen other states that already offer similar tax exemptions.

“My main concern is to meet their needs, maybe some of their wants, but certainly their needs,” Henderson-Hughes said.

The bills were referred to the House Tax Committee.

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