Webster, New York — Monroe County became the 10th county in New York State to eliminate the sales tax on clothing.
The county legislature has approved a tax exemption for clothing and shoes that people buy for $110 or less in Monroe County. Footwear and clothing under $110 are already exempt from the state’s 4% sales tax.
Stephanie Magriochetti opened her own store, Sojo Boutique, last year. I love being a small business owner.
“I love choosing and styling children’s clothing, and I love choosing affordable, high-quality items that I can gift to people,” said Mariochetti.
But business is tough these days.
“It takes a lot of work to start a business in the first place, but I don’t think this has been an ideal year in the current economic climate,” Mariochetti said.
But starting March 1, she hopes Monroe County’s elimination of the 4% county sales tax on clothing purchases under $110 will help.
“I’m really happy. I think it’s great not only for consumers, but also for us small business owners. I think people will shop a little more,” said Mariochetti.
She’s more than just a small business owner, she’s also a mother.
“It’s the same when it comes to buying household essentials. You definitely need to choose what’s available,” said Mariochetti.
In fact, that’s where Sojo Boutique got its name.
“My daughter is my little model,” said Mariochetti. “She’s been modeling my clothes for years, so she’s a lot of fun. A fun mother-daughter duo.”
The county expects residents to save a total of $12 million annually, but does not anticipate a significant reduction in income.
“We’re having another year of record numbers when it comes to sales tax collections,” said county executive Adam Bello. “Monroe County is still expecting a sales tax increase this year, even though it just finished budgeting.”
Bello says in his heart that clothing is as essential as food, and that even the smallest of things go a long way.
“Think how inflation has raised the cost of buying such a product,” Bello said. “If he can get the 4% off, it will take him 4% off the price tag at the time of purchase and put more money back in people’s pockets.”
Mariochetti is desperate for a little peace of mind for her and her customers.
“It’s only 4%, but it helps,” she says. “And clothes are a necessity, just like food and other things. So I think that’s great.”
