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Daily Talker: Sales Tax Debate

Despite its popularity each year among Massachusetts consumers, there is growing skepticism on Beacon Hill about the true impact of the state's sales tax holiday.

Some simply call it a gimmick.

Since 2004, lawmakers have approved a two-day holiday for shoppers in the summer to avoid paying the state's now 6.25 percent sales tax on items.  The one exception was in 2009 at the height of the recession.

Tomorrow, the state Revenue Committee will take up a number of bills pertaining to the sales tax holiday.

The Globe reports that some officials worry the weekend reprieve from the 6.25 percent tax diverts millions during tight budget times, depriving the state of money that could be used for everything from education to fighting the opioid overdose epidemic.

 

Many retailers support the sales tax weekend, saying it is good for consumers, businesses, and jobs.

Do you think the sales tax holiday is good for the state?  Or do you agree with concerns that the money lost could be better spent on other state needs such as education or infrastructure?

Leave your comments below, or on Facebook or Twitter using #WBZTalker.

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