ANNAPOLIS, MD (August 3, 2006) - Comptroller William Donald Schaefer today was scheduled to announce at a news conference that Maryland's sales tax holiday will run from Aug. 23 - 27, 2006. All shoppers are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to buy clothing items, priced $100 and less, without paying Maryland's 5 percent sales tax. Consumers saved $5.1 million in sales tax from Maryland's last tax-free holiday, in 2001.
"Every bit of savings counts," said Comptroller Schaefer. "If you have any back-to-school clothes to buy or just need to update your wardrobe, it's worth it to shop in Maryland August 23rd through the 27th."
Stemming from legislation passed by the General Assembly in 2005, the Comptroller's Office has teamed with the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development and the Maryland Retailers Association to promote the sales tax holiday. "Shop Maryland" public service announcements will begin airing soon after Aug. 3, on local radio and TV stations.
"The Maryland Office of Tourism Development is happy to promote the return of tax free shopping in Maryland," said Aris Melissaratos, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development, which oversees the Maryland Office of Tourism Development. "Tax-free shopping in Maryland is not only great for Maryland residents, but also great for our tourists, many of whom come to Maryland specifically to enjoy our great shopping experience."
Consumer benefits from the sales tax holiday are not limited to 5 percent off each item, however. Merchants use the holiday to market more aggressively and highlight savings to their shoppers, adding and increasing discount opportunities.
"The previous tax-free holiday was wildly successful, and we expect that this year's will be even bigger," said Tom Saquella, President of Maryland Retailers Association. Saquella also applauded the efforts being made by state officials to promote the tax holiday to Marylanders and tourists.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Michael D. Golden, 410-260-7305
Kevin P. Kane, 410-260-7578
