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Tallahassee, FL - Governor Ron DeSantis has unveiled a proposed budget that includes a sales tax holiday on firearms and ammunition in a move to provide tax relief to Floridians.
On February 3rd, Governor DeSantis announced his $115.6 billion budget proposal for the 2025-2026 fiscal year during a press conference in Tallahassee.
Among various tax relief measures, the budget introduces the "Second Amendment Summer" sales tax holiday, scheduled to run from Memorial Day through the Fourth of July.
This initiative aims to temporarily eliminate sales taxes on firearms, ammunition, and related accessories, potentially saving consumers an estimated $8 million.
"We are unveiling the 'Second Amendment Summer' tax holiday, so from Memorial Day to the Fourth of July, you can get your ammunition, your firearms, and your accoutrements tax-free in the state of Florida," DeSantis stated during the announcement.
The proposed budget also includes other tax relief measures:
- Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday: A 14-day period exempting taxes on school supplies, clothing, and computers, estimated to save families $87 million.
- Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays: Two 14-day periods allowing tax-free purchases of hurricane supplies, with projected savings of $72 million for residents.
- Freedom Summer Sales Tax Holiday: A one-month tax exemption on outdoor recreation items during the summer, expected to save families $82 million.
- Tool Time Sales Tax Holiday: A seven-day tax break on tools for skilled workers, aiming for $18 million in savings.
- Boating Fuel Tax Holiday: A two-month reduction of motor fuel taxes on specific gasoline blends, anticipated to save boaters $27 million.
These initiatives reflect the administration's focus on fiscal responsibility and providing financial relief to Florida residents.
The budget proposal will be reviewed and negotiated by state lawmakers during the upcoming legislative session, which begins on March 4.
If approved, the "Second Amendment Summer" tax holiday would be a new addition to Florida's lineup of sales tax holidays, emphasizing the state's support for Second Amendment rights and aiming to boost related retail activities during the specified period.
The proposed budget also outlines plans to increase pay for state law enforcement officers and firefighters, eliminate a commercial lease tax, and invest in various infrastructure and environmental projects.
The 2025-2026 fiscal year is set to commence on July 1st.
As the legislative process unfolds, these proposals will be subject to discussions and potential modifications before final approval.