It makes ‘cents’ to save while stocking up for hurricane season | Opinion
Hurricane season is upon us, and it’s time to get prepared.
The forecasts predict we’re going to have a busy storm season. Colorado State University’s annual prediction calls for an above-average season, with 19 named storms and four major hurricanes. Florida’s own WeatherTiger considers the many factors that will contribute to this year’s activity, including a persistent La Nina and warmer water temperatures detected in the Atlantic.
The best and most important thing we can do is to get prepared. Now is the time to stock up on tax-free purchases. Florida’s Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday allows Floridians to save on dozens of items that can help them weather the storms that come our way.
The Florida Legislature passed House Bill 7071 this year, and it was signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis. It extends the annual Disaster Preparedness Tax-Free Holiday to14 days beginning Memorial Day Weekend and lasting through Friday, June 10.
With Americans struggling with the rising costs due to inflation. I am grateful our lawmakers worked to provide broad-based tax savings for consumers on essential items.
Take advantage of the opportunity. Start by planning. Go to Florida’s official Emergency Management guide at GetAPlan.org. There, you can find itemized lists to help you stock up on essentials you may need in the event of an emergency.
You can find a list of items that are tax-free from May 28 through June 10 at FRF.org. Enjoy savings on battery packs, generators, fuel tanks, tarps, smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Even pet food and other pet supplies are available tax-free this year.
Remember when you stock to support Florida retail stores. Florida is home to more than 274,000 retailers. More than 2.7 million Floridians work in the industry, which is responsible for one out of every five jobs in Florida. The retail industry in Florida pays $49 billion in annual wages and contributes $155 billion to the economy each year.
When you choose to “Find It In Florida” and shop local, you’re supporting your neighbors and your community.
Looking ahead this summer, there will be more opportunities to save when you stock up and support Florida retail stores. HB 7071 also renewed Freedom Week, a tax holiday to save on outdoor fun in July, and Back-to-School, an opportunity to save on school supplies and essentials.
Don’t miss out on our first chance to save: Disaster Preparedness Tax-Free Holiday, May 28 through June 10. It makes “cents” to stock up for the season and support our local retailers.
Scott Shalley is the president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation.
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This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: It makes ‘cents’ to save while stocking up for hurricane season | Opinion
