Hurricane season is almost upon us, are you prepared? After much of Texas went through a historic winter weather event in February, Texans are encouraged to have emergency supplies on-hand in case of another natural disaster. This weekend, April 24-26, the state is helping you save money to purchase emergency items you may need.

"As hurricane season approaches, I encourage Texans across the state to prepare today for a safer tomorrow," said Texas Governor Greg Abbott. "Our Emergency Supplies Sales Tax Holiday helps ensure that Texans can purchase necessary emergency preparedness supplies to protect themselves and their families in the event of future disasters."

These emergency preparation supplies qualify for tax exemption if purchased for a sales price:

• Less than $3000
  • Portable generators
• Less than $300
  • Emergency ladders
  • Hurricane shutters
• Less than $75
  • 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
  • Smoke detectors
  • Tarps and other plastic sheeting

Note: Several over-the-counter self-care items, such as antibacterial hand sanitizer, soap, spray and wipes, are always exempt from sales tax if they are labeled with a “Drug Facts” panel in accordance with federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations. 

These supplies do not qualify for tax exemption:

• Medical masks and face masks
• Cleaning supplies, such as disinfectants and bleach wipes
• Gloves, including leather, fabric, latex and types used in healthcare
• Toilet paper
• Batteries for automobiles, boats and other motorized vehicles
• Camping stoves
• Camping supplies
• Chainsaws
• Plywood
• Extension ladders
• Stepladders
• Tents
• Repair or replacement parts for emergency preparation supplies
• Services performed on, or related to, emergency preparation supplies