Bargain shoppers in Florida likely will spend at least some of this weekend taking advantage of the back-to-school sales-tax holiday. The three-day event beganat 12:01 a.m. Friday and ends at midnight Sunday.
Once again, the legislatively approved tax cut, estimated to save shoppers $32 million, is a chance to shop for such school necessities (deemed by lawmakers) as everything from clothes and backpacks to bowling shoes and fanny packs. Items must be priced individually at up to $75 without having to pay state or local option sales taxes.
It should be noted that the exemption on bowling shoes doesnt cover rentals while at the lanes.
Go here for a list of exempt items.
And there are qualifiers on items.
Shoulder pads for dresses and jackets are exempt, but not for sports.
As for certain school supplies, items must be $15 or less.
Blank CD computer disks are exempt, but not computer paper.
Also, the state doesnt include books on the exempt list for the holiday period. The state Department of Revenue does note that there are always certain books, such as the Bible, that are unfailingly exempt.
State Rep. Janet Adkins, R-Fernandina Beach, said the decision to approve the holiday was made to bolster the economy.
"This holiday not only helps ease the cost of purchasing school supplies, but it also encourages patrons to go out and help support Florida's economy," Adkins stated in a release.
The lifting of sales taxes is expected to reduce state revenue by $25.9 million and county and city revenues by $5.9 million, according to the state staff analysis of the bill, HB 7087.
Rep. Dorothy Hukill, R-Port Orange, added that the holiday isnt just for those heading back to school.
Even if you don't have children to buy for, you can still benefit from this event, Hukill wrote. Your purchases of clothing, footwear, and certain supplies will still be exempt from the sales tax, even if you aren't buying for school.
In addition, many retailers plan large sales around this event, so it's a great time to pick up a few extra items.
Reach Jim Turner at jturner@sunshinestatenews.com or at (772) 215-9889.
