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State to hold Sales Tax Holiday for emergency supplies

Posted at 12:01 PM, Apr 12, 2018
and last updated 2018-04-12 13:01:14-04

As many Texans continue to recover from Hurricane Harvey and prepare for potential severe weather in the coming storm season, the Texas comptroller has announced a Sales Tax Holiday for emergency preparation supplies.

From April 28 to April 30, the purchase of certain emergency supplies will be exempt from sales tax.  These items include:

  • batteries, fuel containers and flashlights priced at less than $75
  • hurricane shutters and emergency ladders priced at less than $300; and
  • portable generators priced at less than $3,000

Purchases that do not qualify include:

  • batteries for automobiles, boats and other motorized vehicles
  • camping stoves and camping supplies
  • chainsaws
  • plywood
  • extension ladders and stepladders; and
  • tents

“The severe weather we had last year — particularly Hurricane Harvey — was a stark reminder that Texans should be prepared for emergencies at all times,” Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar said. “This tax holiday allows people to save money while ensuring they have the supplies they need before an emergency situation occurs.”

A list of emergency preparation supplies that may be purchased tax-free can be found on the Comptroller’s website.

The Comptroller’s office estimates shoppers will save more than $1.5 million in state and local sales taxes during the tax holiday, which was approved by lawmakers during the 2015 Texas Legislature.