Energy-, water-efficient items tax-free in Georgia

Georgians will have a chance to buy energy-sipping and water-efficient products today through Sunday without paying sales tax.

For the fifth year in a row Energy Star products, ranging from refrigerators to light bulbs, will be tax free over the weekend, according to the governor's office.

WaterSense products fall under the tax holiday for the second straight year.

In a news release, Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue said the exemptions can help "create a culture of conservation" in the state.

The governor has been criticized by environmental groups and officials in neighboring states for not taking water conservation seriously during the Georgia's two decades of water disputes with Alabama and Florida.

The governor said shoppers could save money on the purchase and in the long run.

"The Energy Star and WaterSense sales tax holiday is a perfect opportunity for Georgians to save money at the cash register and on their water and energy bills," he said in the release.

Qualifying Energy Star products include dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners, ceiling fans, fluorescent light bulbs, dehumidifiers, programmable thermostats, refrigerators, doors, windows and skylights.

WaterSense-labeled products eligible for the exemption include bathroom sink faucets or aerators and high-efficiency toilets.

The exemptions covers qualifying products that cost up to $1,500 per item, according to the governor.

Lamar Bramblett, manager at 2A Appliance in Fort Oglethorpe, said he and other appliance dealers are prepared for the tax holiday, but are unsure of the exemption's effect given the struggling economy.

"Normally it does bring customers in, but I'm not sure how well it's going to work with the economy the way it is," he said.

via timesfreepress.com