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Hundreds of Cubans and Latinos in Florida could soon benefit from concrete relief: the permanent elimination of the sales tax on essential hurricane supplies.
According to information published in the local media Spectrum News, this week, state legislators approved a budget of $115 billion that includes a key change: emergency items such as batteries, portable generators, tarps, and five-gallon or smaller gas cans will be exempt from sales tax year-round. Governor Ron DeSantis now has the final say.
Until now, residents of the state were limited to two short periods a year to take advantage of tax exemptions. However, this new measure aims to allow families to prepare calmly and with foresight, without the stress of deadlines or the burden of the high cost of living.
"We should have the tax exempt all year round," insists Irma Bosquez, a resident of Hillsborough County, as she searches for batteries at Home Depot. "This will likely lead people to prepare in advance and not wait."
In neighborhoods where many Cuban families affected by previous hurricanes live, reconstruction is a daily task. Roofs, walls, damaged ceilings. Recovery is slow and costly. That’s why a measure like this not only eases the financial burden but also alleviates the uncertainty of not knowing if they will have the essentials when another storm hits.
If Governor Ron DeSantis signs it, it will take effect on July 1, just as the 2025 hurricane season is expected to be more active than usual. However, local authorities like Dave Connor, Communications Director of Pinellas County, are already encouraging families to start their preparations.
“There are items you can buy today that are always tax-free,” he reminded, such as non-perishable foods and bottled water.
The proposal also includes another significant relief for many working families: a tax exemption on school supplies and clothing throughout the month of August, just in time for back-to-school. This would be the second largest tax cut in the budget, estimated at 167 million dollars.
Since 2005, Florida has offered temporary tax exemptions for the purchase of disaster supplies. However, so far in 2025, none have been approved, and families have had to bear the full cost of items such as generators, gas tanks, flood barriers, batteries, and waterproof tarps.
Now, with this new proposal, the exemption would be permanent and valid year-round, allowing residents to prepare without rush, without endless queues, and with better planning.
“There is no bad time to prepare for a hurricane, especially for those who wait until the last minute. There are endless lines”, warns Josh Massing, manager of a hardware store in Tampa Bay.
The hurricane season officially began on June 1, with 15 tropical storms expected and at least eight possible hurricanes, according to the Cuban Institute of Meteorology (INSMET).
The forecast from Colorado State University is even more concerning: 17 storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 of major intensity.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Removal of Taxes on Hurricane Items in Florida
Which hurricane supplies will be tax-exempt in Florida?
Emergency items such as batteries, portable generators, waterproof tarps, and five-gallon or smaller gas cans will be tax-free year-round if the measure is approved by Governor Ron DeSantis.
When would the removal of the hurricane supplies tax come into effect?
The elimination of the sales tax on essential hurricane supplies in Florida would take effect on July 1, 2025, just in time for the hurricane season, if approved by Governor Ron DeSantis.
What benefits will come from the elimination of the hurricane supplies tax?
The removal of the tax will allow families to prepare with greater anticipation and foresight, reducing stress and the economic costs associated with hurricane preparedness. In addition, it will benefit communities affected by previous hurricanes, where reconstruction remains a continuous challenge.
What other tax relief measures are being considered in Florida?
In addition to the elimination of the hurricane supplies tax, a tax exemption for school supplies and clothing is being considered for the entire month of August, coinciding with the back-to-school season. There is also discussion about reducing the state sales tax from 6% to 5.25%.
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