By By Lisa Tindell – News writer
It may not be exactly tax-free, but almost.
Brewton and East Brewton will be joining other cities across the state in observing a statewide tax holiday weekend Aug. 4-6.
Although both cities will be observing the tax-break weekend, the 1 percent sales tax imposed by Escambia County will not be exempt during the three-day period.
Some stores are planning to make some changes in order to better serve customers during the weekend of relief.
Peebles, opening on Thursday, Aug. 3, in the old B.C. Moore's location, will be ready to serve customers just in time for the tax break weekend, said Michael Stanley, store manager.
The tax holiday was called for by Gov. Bob Riley during a state of the state address in January and was well received across the state. The Legislature passed the measure in its session this spring.
Even the Alabama Retail Association gave strong backing to the idea, said Tom Surtees, commissioner for the Alabama Department of Revenue.
The tax holiday will be a great opportunity for all shoppers not just parents, Surtees said.
Other items included in the tax break eligibility items are computers, software and computer supplies with a price of $750 or less per item; school supplies and textbooks with a price of $50 or less per item; and other books with a price of $30 or less per item.
Officials with the Alabama Department of Revenue have estimated that Alabamians will save an estimated $6 million this year.