It's a relief to many local families as the State sales tax exemption goes into effect across New York State. But as our Amanda Kelley tells us, the tax break is also attracting a great deal of shoppers from across the border, helping to boost Watertown business.

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WATERTOWN, N.Y. -- It's not an April Fool’s joke, although it's hard for many shoppers to believe. New York State is no longer charging the 4 percent sales tax on clothing purchases up to one-hundred and ten dollars.

Athena Jarosh, JCPenny Training Supervisor said, “It's going to mean even lower prices, where they can come in and they can shop and they can experience those lower prices as long as they're not purchasing any one particular clothing item over $110."

Many shoppers in the Watertown area have traveled across the border to pick up some deals. Avoiding a staggering 13 percent Canadian sales tax.

Alaina Collymore, a Canadian shopper said, “You know what, the prices are great. We're a family of five, so to have to pay 13 percent for kids clothing and shoes and so on, it just gets really pricey."

Canadian shopper, Angela McGeachie said, “The prices. Honestly. Like seriously, you can't get shirts for three dollars like this at home."

Now Canadians will be getting even better bargains when they cross the border.

Canadians said with this sales tax exemption they won't just be shopping more often, they'll also be picking up a few extra items to take home."

Collymore said, “Oh my gosh. Shop some more. Let's start swiping the credit cards. No it's worth it. I'm sorry to say but it's definitely worth it. Every little penny counts."

JCPenny along with many other retail stores in Watertown said a large percentage of their business comes from Canadian Shoppers. And they'll expect to see a boost in their sales thanks to the tax change.

Jarosh said, “I'm sure you're going to see it not only through JC Penny's but through retail stores everywhere."

It's a winning combination for shoppers and retailers alike.