As Texans continue to endure the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of San Marcos Office of Emergency Management would like to remind everyone to continue ensuring their preparedness for natural disasters such as hurricanes, flash floods and wildfires and to take advantage of the upcoming Sales Tax Holiday for these items.
Beginning at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, and ending at midnight on Monday, April 27, Texans may purchase qualifying items online or in-person during the 2020 Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday. If purchases are made in person, it’s important to practice appropriate social distancing as described by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“The first of June is the start of the 2020 hurricane season, so this is a great opportunity to stock up on emergency supplies,” said Rachel Ingle, Emergency Management Coordinator. “We know folks are working tirelessly to protect their families through this pandemic, but it’s important to remember that disasters don’t stop, they can happen any time, and that we still need to be prepared for them.”
Examples of emergency preparation supplies that qualify for tax exemption are below:
Less than $3000
Portable generators
Less than $300
Emergency ladders
Hurricane shutters
Less than $75
Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
Coolers and ice chests for food storage – nonelectric
Fire extinguishers
First aid kits
Ground anchor systems and tie-down kits
Light sources - portable self-powered (including battery operated)
Mobile telephone batteries and mobile telephone chargers
Radios - portable self-powered (including battery operated) - includes two-way and weather band radios
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. The list of tax-free items is established by law and does not include items such as masks or personal protection equipment.
There’s no limit on the number of qualifying items that may be purchased. Visit https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98-1017.php for more information.
For media inquiries, contact communicationsinfo@sanmarcostx.gov.
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