TALLAHASSEE – House bill 893, also known as the “Back to School Tax Holiday” bill, which provides real tax relief for Florida parents and keeps money in the pockets of Florida’s taxpayers, won approval from the Policy & Budget Council and moved forward for consideration by the full House.

“As a parent, I know how expensive it is to purchase school supplies for kids who are going back to school. These are tough times for Florida’s families and we must provide relief whenever possible, especially for parents who are making touch decisions about where to put their money,” stated Representative Marti Coley (R-Marianna), sponsor of HB 893. “My bill underscores our efforts to make Florida affordable and provides parents with tax relief so they have money to purchase the books, clothing, footwear and other items their children will need for school. This is a parent-friendly bill, and I’m pleased that it is moving to the full House for a vote,” concluded Representative Coley.

HB 893 establishes a sales tax holiday on August 2-11, 2008 (10 days). During the sales tax holiday, books, clothing, footwear, wallets, and bags that cost $50 or less, and school supplies that cost $10 or less, are exempt from the state sales tax and county discretionary sales surtaxes.

The bill now moves to the full House for final consideration.