Rep. Marla Brown announced on March 25 her support for the House Republican “Freedom Through Affordability” initiative, which aims to provide tax relief and address rising costs for Pennsylvanians. The initiative was presented at a Capitol press conference and includes temporary tax cuts and targeted sales tax holidays intended to offer immediate financial help to families, workers, and small businesses facing higher prices.
Brown said the effort is about supporting Pennsylvanians as they manage increasing expenses. “As families across Pennsylvania work to keep up with rising costs, we have a responsibility to act,” Brown said. “The Freedom Through Affordability plan is about putting more money back into people’s pockets and giving them the breathing room they need to manage their daily lives.”
She introduced two bills as part of this broader effort. One would create a six-month sales tax holiday on prom-related purchases such as dresses, tuxedos, shoes, and other items from April 1 through September 30, 2026. Brown said this proposal is designed to help offset growing expenses tied to prom season while also benefiting local businesses: “Prom is a special moment for students and families, but the cost can be overwhelming,” she said. “This is a simple way to make that experience more affordable while also supporting the small businesses that rely on prom season.”
A second bill proposes another six-month sales tax holiday covering home gardening and lawn supplies—including seeds, tools, and equipment—from April 22 through September 22, 2026. According to Brown: “People in Lawrence County take a lot of pride in their homes and yards. Gardening and lawn care are not just hobbies, they are part of how families invest in their property and their community… This tax holiday helps lower the cost of those everyday items… It is a practical way to help people save money and take care of the places they call home.”
Brown explained these measures are part of larger efforts by House Republicans that include temporary relief on income taxes, energy costs, and other daily expenses. She added: “Taken together, these proposals reflect a broader commitment to making Pennsylvania a more affordable place to live, work and raise a family.”
House Republicans also announced an “Affordability Starts Here” tour across Pennsylvania aimed at hearing directly from residents about economic challenges.
