Retailers push for tax holiday

Backed by a new economic study, the Florida Retail Federation wants the Legislature to approve at least a three-day back-to-school sales tax holiday for the weekend of Aug. 19-21.

Rick McAllister, president and CEO of the retailers group, cites Florida department of revenue data used in the Washington Economics Group study showing that the 2010 three-day holiday generated $115 million in taxable sales compared to the same weekend in 2009. The study claims that translated into $7 million in additional tax revenue to the state.

There were no sales tax holidays in 2008 or 2009. Another WEG study released last year, reported that the state lost out on $118 million in tax revenue by not having a tax holiday in 2009. That led to the Legislature approving it for 2010.

McCallister calls the tax holiday, which exempts state sales tax on any clothing up to $50 plus school-related items, “ ... a win for the consumer, the retailer and the state of Florida.” He says they'll ask for a 10-day holiday when two proposed bills reach committees in the House and Senate.