Daily Dose for August 01, 2008

Tax Free Weekend This Weekend

Tax Free Weekend This Weekend -- Don't forget you can get clothing items and computers under $100 without having to pay the state's sales tax this weekend. Economists are debating the impact of the sales tax holiday this year, which they say will be less of a homerun than in year's past. Tradtionally, shoppers who come to take advantage of the tax free savings typically spend that extra money on other taxed items. But this year, because of a slow economy and fuel costs, consumers could be less willing to spend money on non-necessary items. In recent weeks, Gov. Bredesen has changed his stance in favoring a sales tax holiday to opposing it in the future. Opposition to the tax holiday could have consequences if other surrounding states decide to keep their sales tax holidays, TN could lose out on even more revenue opportunities than it gives up in the holiday.

TN to Get Tougher Edu Standards -- Tougher standards for graduation, including more difficult math and science courses, are coming to TN. The class of 2013 and every class thereafter will be required to take four years of math, instead of three, including the higher level Algebra II, which currently is not required for a high school diploma. Additionally, all students still must take three years of science, but now they'll be required to pass chemistry or physics in addition to biology. The effort is a push on the part of a 33 state coalition to standardize state school standards across the country.

Hammond Leads Donations in Hamilton -- GOP Sheriff candidate Jim Hammond leads contributions in the Sheriff's race in Hamilton Co. According to financial disclosure forms filed with the election office, Mr. Hammond received a total of $120,675 in contributions between March 28 and July 28. Contributions to Democrat Greg Beck totaled $20,785, while Independent candidate Jim Winters reported $1,950 in contributions.

Posted by Adam Groves | Email This |