Abbott encourages Texans to participate in emergency supplies tax-free weekend
Apr. 24—AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) on Thursday encouraged Texans to participate in this year's Emergency Supplies Sales Tax Holiday starting Saturday, April 26, through Monday, April 28.
"Having emergency supplies on-hand is one of the best ways Texans can keep themselves and their loved ones safe during emergency weather events," Abbott said in a news release. "I encourage all Texans to take advantage of this tax-free holiday to purchase emergency supplies, such as flashlights, first aid kids, or fire extinguishers, in order to be prepared for any potential severe weather or disasters."
The Emergency Supplies Sales Tax Holiday was established in 2015 after Governor Abbott signed Senate Bill 904 into law. It allows Texans to purchase certain emergency preparation supplies tax free, in-store or online, during the designated weekend each year.
The Texas Comptroller's website contains more information about eligible items and qualifying purchases.
With spring storms in the forecast and hurricane season beginning on June 1, Texans are encouraged to take advantage of this annual opportunity and proactively prepare an emergency supply kit. Texans are urged to review disaster preparedness tips at tdem.texas.gov/prepare and visit TexasReady.gov to locate information on emergency planning resources, including guidance on assembling a supply kit.
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