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Jul 12, 2023

Florida sales tax holiday for hurricane supplies gets underway

At the same time a potential cyclone is looming for Florida’s west coast, a tax holiday has begun for state residents to get their hurricane supplies. Florida legislators unanimously passed the tax

At the same time a potential cyclone is looming for Florida’s west coast, a tax holiday has begun for state residents to get their hurricane supplies.

Florida legislators unanimously passed the tax holiday this past session. The holiday began Saturday and ends Sept. 8. The holiday is meant to provide some price relief for Floridians who prepare for storm season by stocking up on batteries, canned foods, flashlights and cases of bottled water.

The state is expecting Tropical Storm Idalia to hit somewhere between west Florida and the Panhandle as a hurricane later in the week. Last year, Hurricane Ian caused about $109.5 billion in total damages in southwest Florida, particularly around Fort Myers.

The peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June through November, occurs in early September. This year's season is expected to be busier than normal because of the Atlantic basin's exceptionally warm water temperatures.

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Shoppers interviewed Sunday at area big-box hardware stores were not availing themselves of the break, but the state Department of Revenue does provide a detailed list of items included in the tax-relief measure. They include items for the household or for pets.

For the household, Floridians can get a sales tax break on smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide detectors under $70. Also on the list are toilet paper, paper towels, laundry supplies, cleaning sprays and disinfectant wipes under $30.

Families can also buy portable generators retailing for under $3,000 and save themselves a hefty tax fee. The state has a 6% state sales tax rate; most of its biggest counties have a 7% rate in place.

Dogs and cats are also kept in mind, too: Dog or cat food under 50 pounds, pet medications and portable kennels all qualify for Florida’s tax holiday.

Stephany Matat is a politics reporter forThe Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY-Florida network. Reach her [email protected]. Support local journalism:Subscribe today.