Austin, TX – Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa wants to remind Texans that the Texas Sales Tax Holiday on Emergency Preparation Supplies is coming up this weekend. Beginning Saturday, April 27 through midnight on Monday, April 29, Texans can purchase emergency supplies and hurricane-proofing materials without paying a sales tax.

In 2015, Senator Hinojosa authored and passed Senate Bill 904 to create this tax free weekend for all Texans to be better prepared for weather events or disasters, including hail storms, hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and more.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

"The best time to prepare for disasters is before they strike. From hurricanes and snow storms to record-breaking heat, we know the devastating effects that natural disasters can have on our daily lives. I was proud to pass legislation in 2015 that saves Texas families money as they purchase the supplies necessary to be ready for any disaster they might face.

I urge everyone to take advantage of the tax holiday this weekend and spread awareness about the importance of mitigation and emergency preparedness."

Some of the items exempt from sales tax this weekend are:

• Portable generators
• Hurricane shutters
• Batteries
• Carbon monoxide detectors
• Coolers and ice chests
• Tarps
• Radios
• Smoke detectors
• Fire extinguishers
• First aid kits
• Fuel containers
• Candles, flashlights, and lanterns

There is no limit on the number of qualifying items you can purchase. A full list of emergency preparation supplies can be found on the Comptroller's website:

https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98-1017.php

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