Governor Whitmer Proposes Tax-Free Holiday for School Clothes & Supplies
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has laid out her budget proposal for 2026 and has proposed a holiday that many Michigan parents will appreciate.
This marks Governor Whitmer's final budget in her time as the governor of Michigan.
The FY27 Budget doesn't just propose the tax-free holiday for families; it also proposes property tax relief for seniors, continuing the Working Families Tax Credit, free school meals, and more.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer's Proposed Tax-Free Holiday
Many states across the nation already have tax-free holidays for families. These holidays give families the opportunity to purchase school clothes, supplies, and even some electronics without having to pay sales tax.
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In a release, Dr. Tonya Whitehead, President of the Michigan PTA, said,
Back-to-school costs can create real barriers for families, and a temporary sales tax exemption on school supplies helps reduce those inequities. Making clothing, classroom items, and technology more affordable helps ensure more students start the school year with what they need to learn and succeed.
When you think about it in numbers, a tax-free holiday would save parents and families $6 for every $100 spent.
A study from Capital One in 2025 showed that the average household was paying $586 per child for back-to-school clothes and supplies. The proposed tax-free holiday would result in savings of just over $35.
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Gallery Credit: Mike Brant
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