Staff Reports
The Florida Retail Federation has issued a reminder that the new disaster preparedness sales-tax holiday begins this week.
Right in time for hurricane season, the state will waive sales taxes on purchases of emergency supplies starting at 12:01 p.m. Friday, ending at 11:59 p.m. Sunday.
“Thanks to our legislative leaders and Gov. Scott for including the disaster preparedness sales-tax holiday in the budget, especially with Florida coming off of a year with hurricanes, tornadoes and floods,” federation president and CEO R. Scott Shalley said in a written statement.
“I strongly encourage all residents and visitors to take advantage of these savings by visiting your local retailers to load up on those items that will help keep you and your family safe in the event of a natural disaster,” Shalley said.
The tax holiday was among a package of tax cuts approved by the Legislature this year.
The waiver extends to solar-powered lights; self-powered radios; batteries; electric generators and fuel tanks; nonelectric coolers and reusable ice; and more. There are price limits for covered items.
The Florida Department of Revenue has issued a tip sheet with all the details. More information here.
The hurricane season begins Thursday and runs through Nov. 30.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts a livelier-than-usual season, with as many as 17 named tropical storms or hurricanes in the Atlantic basin.
Here’s the list of the approved storm names.
