New bill to expand the state's annual sales tax holiday

What is Senate Bill 231?

SB 231 seeks to ease the financial burden for Oklahoma families by expanding the state's annual sales tax holiday. The legislation is written by Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond.

“This is a really simple way to help families,” said Thompson. “I know as a mom I've got three kids, and so every August when we go back to school, it's quite the investment.”

What will be included under the new bill?

The legislation would exempt additional essential back-to-school items, including sportswear, school supplies, school art supplies, instructional materials, and computer supplies, from sales tax.

“Some of them that are not covered now but would be under the new bill. We're talking paper, pencils, erasers, crayons, sporting equipment for our kids to participate in after-school sports,” said Sen. Thompson. 

When do sales run on back-to-school shopping?

You can get great deals during back-to-school shopping from the first Friday to Sunday in August each year.

What’s next for the bill?

SB 231 was unanimously passed by the Senate Committee on Revenue and Taxation with an 11-0 vote. It will now advance to the Senate floor for further consideration.