By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved measures designating Saturday, August 9 and Sunday, August 10 as a sales tax holiday weekend for the Bay State, allowing consumers to buy most products that cost under $2,500 without paying the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax. State law currently calls for a 2-day sales tax holiday every year. This bill simply sets the specific dates.

“The sales tax holiday is a wonderful opportunity for our residents to get out into their communities, support local businesses, get their kids ready for school in fall or make a purchase that they’ve been putting off,” said co-sponsor Sen. Adam Gómez (D-Springfield), Senate Chair of the Committee on Community Development and Small Businesses. “I am glad that our leaders here in the Legislature have been able to work and get this done again for our residents this year, and I look forward to hearing how residents are able to make the most of the tax reprieve.”

“I was proud to sponsor the legislation establishing this year’s sales tax holiday that helps boost our economy and provides support and relief for our residents and small businesses,” said co-sponsor Rep. Carole Fiola (D-Fall River), House Chair of the Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies. “This is an important weekend that helps bolster our economy and I applaud my colleagues in passing this legislation to provide individuals, families and businesses across the commonwealth with some relief.”

“Lowering costs for Massachusetts residents and supporting local businesses is critical for our communities in this time of economic uncertainty,” said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland).

“This year’s temporary suspension of the sales tax will bring consumers needed economic relief while boosting revenue for small businesses and retailers,” said House Speaker Ron Mariano (D-Quincy).