Texas Gets Ready For Tax-Free Weekend

AUSTIN (AP) - Texas businesses and shoppers are getting ready for this weekend's sales tax holiday as students prepare to return to school.

Comptroller Susan Combs says the sales tax break, on select items, runs Friday through Sunday. The tax exemption applies to qualified products purchased at a store in Texas or from an Internet or catalog seller that does business in the state.

The sales tax break applies to items that cost less than $100. Clothing, shoes, backpacks and school supplies are among the qualifying merchandise.

Combs has predicted that shoppers in Texas will save more than $62 million in state and local sales taxes this weekend.

San Marcos police have announced increased patrols near outlet malls. Some exit ramps will close to help reroute the expected heavy traffic.

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