Consumers in Massachusetts are likely to get a bit of a discount on most purchases the weekend of August 15 and 16, as the Legislature makes its annual move to give shoppers a little temporary relief from the state sales tax in order to stimulate the retail sector.
It might not seem like much to some savvy shoppers, but 6.25 percent off can mean real savings for those looking to purchase pricier items or luxury goods.
However, the savings for consumers come at the expense of the state's coffers. Opposition to the tax-free weekend is growing each year in the Legislature and Fall River Rep. Alan Silvia isn't alone in considering the tax break a gimmick.
"This year, with my scientific calculations, and I'm not a genius, but that's going to come close to $30 million," Silvia said. "This is money that's diverted from education. This is money that's diverted from the programs we're looking at today. That's a lot of money — for 48 hours."
The bill authorizing the sales tax holiday passed both chambers and needs Gov. Charlie Baker's signature before it's final.
