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Rep. proposes bill for tax-free days on products

Posted at 4:38 PM, Mar 08, 2016
and last updated 2016-03-08 16:38:29-05

One state lawmaker has proposed a bill that would allow people to buy some products tax free on certain days.

The proposal would allow school supplies, outdoor gear and Pure Michigan tourism products to be tax free once a year.

"Sounds like a good idea to me," Laura Harrison said. She sells Pure Michigan products at the Ladybug Shoppe in Royal Oak.

She, like other business owners, like the idea of a tax holiday.

"Anyway I can save my customers money is fine with me."

Rep. Lee Chatfield (R-Levering) has introduced the legislation allowing residents to save on the 6% tax three times a year.

“I believe hard-working parents deserve a break, and this bill will be a boost for tourism and outdoor recreation which are driving forces in Northern Michigan and our statewide economy,” Chatfield said.

The bill would establish three sales tax holidays in Michigan during 2016:

  • June 3-5: Pure Michigan tourism products
  • Sept. 2-5: Back-to-school supplies and clothing
  • Nov. 4-6: Camping, fishing and hunting equipment

Many shoppers, like Janice Walker, support the bill.

"Let's say you spend $200, you save $12 that can go to putting money in the account for lunches," Walker said.

The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Tax Policy for further consideration.