County Executive Marc Elrich held his weekly media briefing on Tuesday, focusing on Tax-Free Maryland Week.
Elrich rescheduled the virtual session to Tuesday, featuring Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman as a special guest, because he will attend the Maryland Association of Counties summer conference, which starts on Wednesday.
Elrich and Lierman outlined the benefits of the tax-free initiative, which eliminates the 6% sales tax on clothing and shoes under $100 and backpacks up to $40. The tax elimination began on Aug. 11 and will continue until Aug. 17. It will include both in person and online purchases.
This temporary tax break aims to relieve financial pressures on families preparing for the new school year. Lierman noted that rising inflation will lead families to spend $875 on clothing, electronics, and school supplies for children in elementary to high school.
The initiative is expected to cost the state about $6.5 million, keeping that amount in shoppers’ pockets.
Lierman also discussed ongoing efforts to modernize the Office of the Comptroller to enhance government efficiency.
Watch the full briefing which County Cable Montgomery streamed live:
