Tax-free shopping Saturday, Sunday

LYNN ? The state’s annual tax-free holiday was sorely missed by thousands of shoppers last year, but the two-day event will return on Aug. 14-15, as Gov. Deval Patrick last week signed off on the economic development bill approved by the Legislature.State Secretary William F. Galvin said the 2010 tax-free weekend will follow the same rules as previous years, applying to purchases less than $2,500.”However, there are several exemptions, such as motorized vehicles, meals, gasoline, tobacco, utilities and lay-away items,” Galvin said. “This year, unlike previous years, the 2010 sales holiday will apply to the sales of alcohol.”Consumers interested in more information about the event can visit the secretary of state’s Web site at www.sec.state.ma.us.”This tax-free holiday weekend provides a great incentive for consumers in Massachusetts, in addition to a much-needed boost to retailers,” Galvin said. “Everyone benefits one way or another. Shoppers purchasing school supplies and items for their college-bound children receive a much-needed financial break on items and the stores and their owners receive the increased foot traffic and added business.”The sales holiday saves shoppers 6.25 percent on eligible purchases.