Floridians could buy flashlights, tarps, radios, batteries, generators and other hurricane necessities tax free the week before the storm season starts under a bill approved Wednesday by a Senate committee.
The measure (SB 24) exempts the items from the state’s 6 percent sales tax May 21-June 1 this year and May 20-31 in 2007.
The bill was sponsored by Sen. Carey Baker, R-Eustis. It was approved unanimously by the Senate Commerce and Consumer Services Committee and must be heard by two more Senate committees before it can go to the floor for a vote. A similar bill (HB 47) is moving in the House.
Among the items that would be tax free under the measure are portable lights that cost $20 or less; battery-powered radios under $50; certain tarps, anchor systems, gas tanks, batteries, cell phone chargers and coolers; and generators up to $1,000.
Supporters initially wanted to include plywood but determined that would be too unwieldy and instead on Wednesday added hurricane shutters up to $300 to the list of items that would be tax free.
Was this article valuable?
Here are more articles you may enjoy.
Federal Judge Cautions State Farm Against Gambling With Courts 
FBI Investigating Possible Exposure of Millions of American IDs 
NC Roofers Caught in Farm Bureau’s Sting Sentenced to Probation, Restitution 
Aon Acquires USI Insurance From KKR in $17 Billion Deal Targeting Middle Market 
