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Metro
Now that Hurricane Season 2021 has started, don’t forget to stock up on supplies by Sunday, the last day of this year’s sales tax holiday.
Floridians can make tax-free purchases on a number of items used to prepare a household for a hurricane including:
• Reusable ice packs that are $20 or less
• Candles, flashlights and lanterns that are $40 or less
• Fuel containers that are $50 or less
• Batteries that are $50 or less, including rechargeable, in these sizes: AAA, AA, C, D, 6-volt and 9-volt. Automobile and boat batteries are not included.
• Radios, two-way and weather band that are $50 or less
• Coolers, ice chests and portable power banks that are $60 or less
• Bungee cords, ground anchor systems, ratchet straps, tarps, tie-down kits, plastic sheeting and other flexible waterproof sheeting that are $100 or less
• Portable generators that are $1,000 or less
This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts 13 to 20 named storms, of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes. NOAA said 3 to 5 are likely to be Category 3, 4 or 5.
An AAA Hurricane Season Survey released Monday revealed residents of the Sunshine State are underprepared for hurricane season.
The survey showed that 29% of Floridians would ignore an evacuation warning during a hurricane. Some 60% of those surveyed say they would only evacuate in the event of a Category 3 storm or higher.
More tax-free shopping this summer
There will also be the familiar back-to-school tax free week, from July 31-Aug. 9. That one applies to clothes, school supplies and the first $1,000 of the sale price of a computer.
Last month, Gov. Ron DeSantis approved a third tax-free shopping period, declaring “freedom” from taxes on some popular summer season items as part of HB 7061, a $200 million bill he signed into law.
“Freedom Week” aims to encourage spending on recreational and cultural activities in Florida as COVID-19 restrictions disappear. It will run from July 1 through July 7 and offers Floridians an opportunity to purchase tax-free tickets to arts and cultural events like concerts and theater, and outdoor gear like fishing and camping supplies.
It comes just in time as live acts start making their way to Florida this summer, including Osceola Heritage Park.
The tax exemptions don’t apply to sales within a theme park or entertainment complex or within a public lodging establishment or airport.
