Connecticut's annual sales tax-free week and an expansion of the free school meals program will help families navigate the new school year.

As summer starts winding down and back-to-school preparations begin, there are a variety of ways the state helps make the return to the classroom a little easier for both parents and students.

Sales Tax Free Week

Connecticut's 2023 Sales Tax Free Week begins on Sunday, August 20 and runs through Saturday, August 26. This is a great opportunity to take the kids back-to-school shopping while saving money. During this sales tax holiday, most clothing and footwear items priced under $100 are exempt from the Connecticut sales tax. The tax holiday applies to purchases made in-store, online, mail-order, and over the phone.

Many retailers in Connecticut also offer additional discounts on clothing and footwear during Sales Tax Free Week, providing even more savings. Click here for more information about Connecticut’s Sales Tax Holiday, including a list of exempt and taxable items.

Expansion of Free School Meals Program

Both hunger and the stigma of not being able to afford school meals is one of the biggest hurdles to children learning. That is why we are so pleased that Governor Ned Lamont recently announced an expansion to Connecticut’s free school meals program for the 2023-2024 school year, enabling more students to receive access to nutritious breakfast and lunch at no additional cost to them or their families.

Investments in Education

During this year's legislative session, we made historic investments in education with millions of additional dollars allocated in the budget and a number of measures that enhance Connecticut’s educational system.

House Democrats believe supporting public education is one of the most cost-effective investments we can make for the future of our state.