Sunset of Sales Tax Loosens Albany’s Grip on Small Business

Sales tax exemption on clothing to be reinstated April 1

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,I,C-Batavia) recently applauded the return of the sales tax exemption on clothing and footwear. In 2010, Assemblyman Hawley voted against a measure to enforce a four percent sales tax on clothing and footwear under $110. As of April 1, clothing and footwear under $55 will be tax-free until the exemption is extended in 2012 to include items under $110.

“I voted against this regressive tax last year because it served only to push consumers across state lines when they could have otherwise supported small businesses right here in our own community,” said Hawley. “Increasing taxes on clothing hurt those who could least afford it, like working families who are trying to feed and clothe their children. I encourage all Western New Yorkers to take advantage of this fee’s sunset by frequenting the locally-owned-and-operated clothing stores that help build the regional economy.”