Fla. Approves 12-Day Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday

Governor Jeb Bush has signed legislation authorizing Florida’s second annual 12-day sales tax holiday for hurricane preparedness.

The Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday is an important component of Governor Bush’s comprehensive plan to instill a “culture of preparedness” in Florida. Prepared citizens are better equipped to provide for the safety of their families, reduce damage to their homes and recover more quickly from a disaster.

“In this period of increased tropical activity, it is vital for all Floridians to prepare,” the governor said. “Families and businesses that prepare are safer and recover quicker than those who don’t plan and don’t take action.”

Coinciding with National Hurricane Preparedness Week, the tax holiday begins on Sunday, May 21 and ends on the first day of the 2006 Hurricane Season, June 1. The 12-day holiday will save Floridians an estimated $41 million.

Under the legislation, no state or local sales tax will be collected on hurricane preparedness items, including: Flashlights and portable, self-powered light sources – $20 or less; portable radios, two-way radios and weather-band radios – for $50 or less; flexible waterproof sheeting (tarps) – $50 or less; gas or diesel fuel containers – $25 or less; batteries – $30 or less; non-electrical food storage coolers – $30 or less; portable generators – $1,000 or less; carbon monoxide detectors – $75 or less; storm shutter devices – $200 or less; and cell phone batteries – $60 or less.

This legislation is an incentive for Floridians to stock up on supplies, as well as a reminder to prepare for the safety of their families,” said Senator Carey Baker.

“We’ve learned the hard way how important it is to prepare early and thoroughly for hurricane season,” said Rep. Ron Greenstein. “This measure will grant Floridians a tax break on much needed hurricane supplies and hopefully increase the number of people prepared for this year’s hurricane season.”

Source: Gov. Jeb Bush

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Legislation Hurricane