Baker Signs Aug. 15-16 State Sales Tax Holiday Into Law

Massachusetts shoppers can look forward to another annual sales tax holiday this month.

Gov. Charlie Baker on Thursday signed a law that will suspend the 6.25 percent sales tax for the weekend of Aug. 15-16.

Baker said the holiday gives consumers a break while also helping retailers with added business. He added it was something that Massachusetts shoppers look forward to each summer.

The state has had a sales tax holiday in all but one year since 2004.

Critics say it largely helps "big box" national retailers and doesn't do much for the state's economy.

The sales tax remains in effect for cigarettes and big-ticket purchases, such as cars and motorboats, and anything costing more than $2,500.

Food and most clothing are already exempt from the sales tax.