Senator Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., chairman of the Consumer Protection Committee, announced recently that next week, beginning Monday, Jan. 26, has been designated a tax free shopping week.

According to the senator, starting Monday, Jan. 26 through Sunday, Feb. 1, eligible clothing and footwear purchases costing less than $110 will be exempt from state sales and use tax. Also exempt, according to the New York State Department of Taxation, will be items used to make or repair exempt clothing and footwear.

In Nassau County, the exemption will apply to the state's 4 1/2 percent sales and use taxes. Those who are purchasing exempt items during the week will still be responsible for the county portion of the sales tax.

"This is a great opportunity for the families of Nassau County to save some of their hard earned money and to get some shopping done," Fuschillo said. "This gives families added buying power and also allows the retailers of the state the opportunity to get a boost during the historically slow winter months."

This tax free week is one of two that the Legislature negotiated as part of the state budget. For a full list of the items that are exempt from state tax, visit www.senatorfuschillo.com and click on the tax free week information link in the "Charles J. Fuschillo Jr. Reports On" section.