Tax-free week returns for Maryland shoppers the second week of August, the state comptroller's office announced.

During the week of August 8-14, qualifying clothing or footwear purchases under $100 will be free from sales tax. Up to $40 of any backpack purchase is also tax-free during the week. Qualifying items are listed on Comptroller Peter Franchot's website.

"Tax-free week is a rite of Maryland's late summer, signaling the approach of a new school year, cooler weather and a change of wardrobe," Franchot said in a press release.

"Maryland's high vaccination rates means life is beginning to return to normal. While I continue to urge caution, Marylanders should take advantage of tax-free week savings and support locally owned businesses that have been hit hard during the pandemic."... Read More: Pikesville Patch