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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
| State Rep. Robert F. Matzie |
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Matzie proposes tax-free holidays
HARRISBURG, March 16 – State Rep. Robert F. Matzie, D-Allegheny/Beaver, has introduced two pieces of legislation that would create tax-free holidays for the month of April this year.
"I selected specific dates in April; but am not wedded to those dates and would support amendments for dates certain into the future," Matzie said. "I recognize that legislation takes time to go through the process and want this two-bill package out there for discussion. Furthermore, I would welcome additional items if support warranted such."
The first bill, H.B. 1079, would establish four separate week-long state sales tax holidays in April 2011 for certain purchases. Specifically, the proposal would provide for state sales tax holidays for the following dates and items:
• April 1-5, no state sales tax on farm equipment and supplies (excluding vehicles);
• April 6-11, no state sales tax on computers and computer accessories;
• April 12-17, no state sales tax on appliances; and
• April 18-23, no state sales tax on all motor vehicles and tires.
The second bill, H.B. 1080, would establish four separate Saturday state sales tax holidays in April 2011 for certain purchases. More specifically, the proposal would provide for state sales tax holidays for the following dates and items:
• April 9, no state sales tax on farm equipment and supplies (excluding vehicles);
• April 16, no state sales tax on computers and computer accessories;
• April 23, no state sales tax on appliances; and
• April 30, no state sales tax on all motor vehicles and tires.
"In light of our struggling economy, I believe that providing a sales tax holiday would benefit both businesses and consumers," Matzie said. "My proposals could provide a true stimulus for Pennsylvania's economy."
Matzie said he deliberately drafted legislation that would allow a single day tax-free holiday on four consecutive Saturdays and also four designated weeks for tax-free holidays.
"The purpose for two separate bills is to gauge support from my colleagues. I understand that some may be more inclined to support a one-day holiday rather than a week or several days," he said.
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