ATLANTA (AP) -- Back-to-school shoppers in Georgia won't get the benefit of a sales tax holiday this year.

Since 2002, the sales-tax free weekend helped consumers save on apparel, footwear, school supplies and computers.

The tax holiday cost the state $12 million in revenue, and a
similar break usually held in October for energy-efficient
appliances and other items cost $500,000 in tax revenue.

John Heavener, president of the Georgia Retail Association,
believes the state actually nets about $20 million during the sales tax breaks from salary, corporate and other tax revenue generated.

Stores are planning aggressive sales and promotions with the
hope that consumers will hardly notice the difference.