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FLORIDA - The future of Florida’s annual sales tax holiday for hurricane preparedness is uncertain due to a delayed state budget that remains unresolved more than three weeks past its expected approval date.
Each year the Florida Legislature must pass specific legislation authorizing the sales tax exemption period and identifying which hurricane supplies qualify.
As of Tuesday no such legislation has been passed and lawmakers are not scheduled to meet this week according to a notice sent to House members.
Without the necessary approval the sales tax holiday which allows Floridians to save on essential storm supplies cannot move forward.
Businesses across the state particularly hardware stores typically see a rise in customers during this period as residents use the savings opportunity to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season.
One hardware store in Jacksonville reports that many customers often delay storm preparation until the tax holiday is announced which then prompts a rush to purchase emergency items.
The uncertainty around this year’s holiday may lead more people to put off their purchases increasing their risk if a major storm hits early in the season.
According to the latest budget proposal the sales tax holiday was scheduled to run from June 2nd through June 15th 2025.
The measure was expected to save Florida residents approximately 72 million dollars in taxes on hurricane-related goods.
Store owners and preparedness advocates are urging the legislature to act quickly so residents can take advantage of the savings and ensure they have the supplies they need before any severe weather arrives.