Matt Blunt Abets Sales Tax Evasion

Apparently, Arkansans came north over the weekend to take part in the sales tax holiday over the weekend:

The McDonald County Wal-Mart Supercenter saw an enormous amount of customers on Saturday, as thousands flocked to the store to take part in the sales tax holiday.

The state legislature in 2003 established a three day sales tax holiday, during which such items as clothing, computers and school supplies would be offered to shoppers free of state sales tax for three days. Recently, Gov. Matt Blunt signed into law a bill that establishes the holiday as an annual event.

"We are usually busy on Saturday mornings, but today (Saturday during the sales tax holiday), we are busier," said Barb Rowland, assistant manager for the McDonald County Wal-Mart.

The sales tax holiday officially started Friday and will conclude today.

"The sales tax holiday has limits on what items one can buy," Rowland said. "Clothing may be purchased tax free, but must be under $100 per item. We have also seen a lot of school supply items bought today."

Not only has Missourians taken advantage of the sales tax holiday, so has Arkansas residents.

"It is a good idea for the sales tax holiday," said Gary Jorgensen of Arkansas. "It has saved us a lot of money for our children's education. I am glad that Missouri is doing the holiday."

Not just that the sales tax holiday is going on, but also Arkansas residents travel to the Show-Me State for another purpose: Lower sales tax.

"Arkansas's sales tax is almost up to 10 percent, while Missouri's is less than 7 percent," said Amanda Clark, who drives up to the new Wal-Mart to get clothing and groceries.

Lower taxes draw purchasers? Whodathunk it?