In an effort to attract more business, New York State Governor George E. Pataki recently announced that from January 31 through February 6, 2005, shoppers will not have to pay the 4.25% New York State sales tax. In addition, 52 counties and 17 cities, including Suffolk County and New York City, will waive their portion of the sales tax. Unfortunately, for the fourth straight year, Nassau County has not enrolled in this consumer friendly program. "Nassau County is now on stable financial footing, the County Executive makes that quite clear whenever he speaks. However, he continues to pull every penny from the pockets of Nassau County taxpayers, it is time to give a little back," said Nassau County Legislator Vincent T. Muscarella (R-West Hempstead).

The tax-free program, waives the state sales tax on clothing and footwear purchases under $110. Counties and cities have been attracted to join the tax-free week as a way of improving retail sales. "I have spoken with merchants in my district who have seen a decline in business in Nassau County during other tax-free weeks," said Legislator Muscarella. Mothers who need to purchase shoes for their children and senior citizens living on fixed incomes who need winter apparel would have benefited from saving a few dollars this week.

In the recent past, Nassau County has experienced multiple bond rating increases and an influx of revenues generated from the taxation of gasoline. "This ethically challenged administration, which has been busy settling millions of dollars worth of lawsuits to the County, did not feel it was necessary to take part in this one week program. Tax-free week would have been an excellent way of participating in a meaningful tax reduction program for our residents who are already struggling to maintain their way of life in Nassau County," said Legislator Muscarella.