NATCHEZ — Think back-to-school shopping is going to be tough on the budget this year?

Well, think again. Consumers are being given a break with a tax exemption weekend set for the end of July.

If an article of clothing or footwear does not exceed $100, it is potentially eligible for the statewide sales tax holiday on Friday, July 31 and Saturday, Aug. 1.

“I think the sales tax weekend is great,” Natchez Mall Manager Marie Lofton said. “I’m glad (the State Tax Commission) did this for the shoppers around here. With the economy — every little bit helps.”

An article of clothing is defined as anything including pants, shirts, blouses, dresses, coats, jackets, belts, hats, undergarments and garments sold in a set.

Excluded footwear includes skis, swim fins, roller blades, skates and similar items.

Belk Store Manager Mary Flach said the store is fully participating in the event by having additional people on the floor and extending the store hours.

“We constantly have merchandise coming in to get ready for fall, so we will be ready,” she said.

JCPenney will also have additional manpower out in the store and will be extending its hours, staying open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday of the tax holiday.

“The tax holiday is great, as more people will be able to shop locally,” Store Manager Larry Glatts said. “We expect to have 20 to 30 percent more traffic than last year.”

SportsCenter is extending its hours, staying open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on both days.

“The toughest part is coding all of these state requirements into our computer,” President Wade Craig said. “We are working hard on it though and will participate.”

Stage has stocked up on uniforms, including belts and socks, Store Manager Blaine Davis said.

“We have ordered more stock, including winter products, because we anticipate increased business if the word gets out on the weekend,” he said.

Sammy’s Store Manager Hakam Abuhakmeh will have additional staff on hand to help keep up with the crowds, he said.

“We are expecting a rush, so we are assigning one employee to only handle logos (on school uniforms),” Abuhakmeh said. “We will take the crowds as they come — first come first serve.”

Lofton said she hopes customers will come in a few days ahead of time to gauge what they want so they can be processed quicker.

“Remember that with school logos it can take a while,” she said.

“This is a great thing for those who waited until the last minute to do their shopping,” Lofton said. “This is going to be a great weekend.”