The most recent of the state's three tax free holidays, a tax free weekend on emergency supplies, is coming up this weekend, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.
“Unfortunately, we can’t predict when the next fire, flood or tornado may strike,” Hegar said. “But we can be prepared, and this tax holiday helps Texans save money while stocking up for emergency situations before they happen," Comptroller Glenn Hegar said, pointing out that the state has already been pounded with tornadoes, thunderstorms, and hail this year.
You can avoid paying tax on items ranging from generators under $3,000, battieies, fuel containers, and flashlights priced at less than $75, and emergency items like hurricane shutters and emergency ladders priced at less than $300.
Other items which can be bought tax free this weekend include:
- Axes
- Batteries, single or multipack (AAA cell, AA cell, C cell, D cell, 6 volt or 9 volt)
- Can openers - nonelectric
- Carbon monoxide detectors
- Coolers and ice chests for food storage – nonelectric
- Fire extinguishers
- First aid kits
- Fuel containers
- Ground anchor systems and tie-down kits
- Hatchets
- Ice products - reusable and artificial
- Light sources - portable self-powered (including battery operated)
- Examples of items include: candles, flashlights and lanterns
Mobile telephone batteries and mobile telephone chargers
- Radios - portable self-powered (including battery operated) - includes two-way and weather band radios
Items which are not covered include:
batteries for automobiles, boats and other motorized vehicles;
camping stoves and camping supplies;
chainsaws;
plywood;
extension ladders and stepladders;
tents
This is the newest of the three tax free holidays, created by the 2015 Legislature. Other tax free weekends include for the purchase of 'Energy Star' rated appliance and electronics, coming up over Memorial Day weekend, and the very popular back school tax free weekend, which is coming up in early August.
There is talk in the current session of the Legislature of a tax free weekend for firearms purchases.
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