NFIB State Director Julia Hammond says Virginia shoppers should support small, independent businesses during this weekend’s sales tax holiday.

Shoppers won’t pay sales tax on qualifying school supplies, clothing, footwear, hurricane and emergency preparedness items, and Energy Star and WaterSense products without paying sales tax from Friday, Aug. 1, through Sunday, Aug. 3. Click here to learn more.

“This weekend is a chance for Virginia families to save money and support the small businesses in their communities,” Hammond said. “Local businesses are the heart of Virginia’s economy. They create jobs, help fund schools, and give back through donations and sponsorships.”

“When you shop at small businesses, more of your money stays in Virginia,” she said. “For every dollar spent at a local store, about 67 cents stays in the commonwealth. That same dollar also adds another 50 cents to the economy through paychecks and local suppliers. It all adds up to more jobs and stronger communities.”

This year’s tax holiday comes at a time when Virginia small businesses are working through a challenging economic environment. According to the latest NFIB Small Business Economic Trends report, the national Small Business Optimism Index ticked down slightly in June to 98.6, just above its 51-year average. Concerns about taxes, excess inventory, and uneven consumer demand remain top challenges.

“Shopping at small businesses this weekend can help Virginia’s economy stay strong,” Hammond said. “When we help small businesses, we help everyone.”