“Tax Freedom Weekend” is one step closer to reality. The Iowa House last night approved a bill which would eliminate the sales tax on all clothing and shoe purchases made on the first weekend in August. It’s not for high-dollar items, though, as only clothes and shoes which sell for under a hundred dollars could be sold “tax free.” Representative Carmine Boal, a republican from Ankeny, says it’ll be big savings for Iowans shopping for back-to-school wear.Representative Dwayne Alons, a republican from Hull, said Iowa stores along the state’s borders will get more shoppers during the “tax-free” shopping weekend.The bill passed on an 82 to 14 vote. Representative Don Shoultz, a democrat from Waterloo, was a “no” vote as he said many retailers will raise their prices that weekend to take advantage of shoppers. He says the bill would not save anyone any money.Representative James Drees, a democrat from Manning, said the bill sets up a big loophole because “athletic equipment” cannot be sold tax-free that weekend. He says it’s going to be a mess as stores try to figure out what to charge the sales tax on. The proposal now goes to the Senate — one Senate leader said it was “worth a look.
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