Vindman Introduces Legislation to Help Virginia Families Pay for Back-to-School Essentials

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today introduced the Back-to-School Tax Credit Act, legislation that would provide families with a new federal tax credit for basic school supplies.

"Every parent knows the back-to-school list: backpacks, notebooks, pencils, folders, calculators - the basics our kids need to show up ready to learn. But now, that list is growing far too expensive," said Vindman. "For hardworking families already stretching every dollar, those costs add up quickly. As a dad of two, I know firsthand that these aren't optional expenses. Kids need school supplies every year, and families shouldn't have to choose between getting their children what they need to succeed and paying for other necessities."

The Back-to-School Tax Credit Act would provide a refundable tax credit of up to $250 per qualifying child for eligible school supply expenses. The credit would help families offset the cost of supplies required for enrollment or attendance at a public, private, or home school providing elementary or secondary education.

BACKGROUND

The legislation comes as back-to-school expenses continue to put pressure on household budgets. The National Retail Federation's 2026 Back-to-School Survey found that families expected to spend an average of $146.45 per K-12 student on school supplies, in addition to roughly $250 per child on clothing and apparel, adding up to nearly $400 per student.

The price of school supplies has also increased sharply over the past year. Some common items, including lunch boxes, notebooks, and tissues, have seen year-over-year price increases of 20 percent or more. Tariffs and disruptions to global supply chains have contributed to higher costs for manufacturers and consumers.

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