Montreal Families Lead Charge Against Sales Tax on Used Children's Wear
A growing movement is gaining momentum in Quebec as parents across the province are throwing their support behind a petition that seeks to eliminate sales tax on second-hand children's clothing. The initiative, which launched in mid-November 2025, addresses the financial burden facing families who rely on pre-owned clothing to outfit their growing children.
The Financial Reality for Modern Families
With children rapidly outgrowing their clothing and the constant need for seasonal updates, many Quebec households have turned to second-hand options as a practical solution. The petition aims to make these essential items more accessible by removing the additional tax burden that currently applies to used children's garments. Parents argue that taxing clothing that has already been purchased new and taxed once before creates an unfair double financial hit for families trying to make ends meet.
Broader Implications for Family Affordability
The movement comes at a time when many Canadian families are feeling the pinch of rising living costs. Advocates suggest that making second-hand children's clothing tax-free would provide meaningful relief to household budgets while promoting sustainable consumption practices. The petition represents part of a larger conversation about how tax policies affect family affordability and whether essential items for children should receive special consideration in taxation systems.
As the petition continues to gather signatures, organizers hope to bring the issue to the attention of provincial legislators who have the power to implement this consumer-friendly change. The outcome could set a precedent for how jurisdictions across Canada approach taxation of essential children's items in the second-hand marketplace.
