Georgia House Bill HB1171

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/24

Caption

Sales and use tax; clothing and school related supplies during the last two weeks of July each year; exempt

Impact

The implementation of HB 1171 will have a direct impact on state revenue, as the exemption will reduce the amount of sales tax collected during the designated period. However, the potential increase in consumer spending on clothing and school supplies may offset some of the revenue losses. The bill is projected to provide an economic boost to local businesses during a time when sales typically surge due to back-to-school shopping. Moreover, this tax holiday aligns with similar initiatives seen in other states, positioning Georgia as a family-friendly state that supports its residents during economically challenging times.

Summary

House Bill 1171 aims to amend the Official Code of Georgia Annotated by providing a sales and use tax exemption for clothing and school-related supplies during the last two weeks of July each year. This bill is intended to support families by reducing the financial burden associated with back-to-school shopping, thereby encouraging consumer spending in this critical period. By designating these two weeks as a tax-exempt period, the bill seeks to benefit low- and middle-income families who often find themselves under financial stress during the back-to-school season.

Contention

As with many tax-related legislation, there could be notable points of contention surrounding HB 1171. Critics might argue that while the bill aims to assist families, it could strain state resources by reducing tax revenue. Additionally, some may question the effectiveness of tax holidays in stimulating significant economic growth. There may be concerns about whether such exemptions primarily benefit consumers or simply lead to businesses raising prices to account for expected increases in demand. Overall, the debate surrounding the bill may center on evaluating the long-term benefits versus potential budgetary impacts on the state.