Assemblyman Phil Ramos (D-Central Islip) announced that New York will repeal the 4 percent state sales tax on clothing, footwear and similar items sold for less than $110 each, beginning April 1.

“Eliminating the 4% state sales tax is great news for local businesses and hardworking families in Suffolk County,” Assemblyman Ramos said. “While our economy is slowly but surely getting back on track, many local families are still struggling. This sales tax cut will provide much-needed help with clothing and footwear expenses.”

The program, which is in its second year, applies to items purchased in person, over the Internet, by phone or by mail. As the program was met with so much success last year, the qualifying amount for the sales tax exemption has doubled from clothing and footwear sold at $55 or less, to items sold at $110 or less.

The sales tax cut will save taxpayers an estimated $210 million and give local retailers an economic boost. In addition to local shoppers, businesses will likely see an influx of customers from neighboring states like New Jersey, Assemblyman Ramos noted.

“Doubling the qualifying amount for the sales tax exemption gives shoppers more bang for their buck,” Assemblyman Ramos said. “This incentive is a win–win, as it will help keep more customers here in Suffolk County.”

For more information on the sales tax exemption, visit the New York State department of Taxation and Finance website at www.tax.ny.gov.