TALLAHASSEE, FL (352today.com) — Floridians stocking up for hurricane season will notice a big change this year: the state’s two annual hurricane sales tax holidays are gone.

Instead, the Florida Legislature passed HB 7031, which permanently exempts some hurricane preparedness items from sales tax year-round. Gov. Ron DeSantis is expected to sign the bill in the coming days as part of a $1.3 billion tax relief package.

Here’s what you need to know

Items Now Tax-Free All Year

  • Batteries: AA, AAA, D, C, 6-volt, and 9-volt
  • Portable generators
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Tarps and gas cans

These common preparedness items are no longer tied to limited-time tax holidays, offering more flexibility for when Floridians want to shop.

What’s Not Included in the New Exemption

  • Flashlights and weather radios
  • Portable chargers
  • Pet supplies like food and litter

These items were previously covered during hurricane tax holidays but are now subject to regular sales tax unless otherwise exempt under general rules.

Back-to-School Tax Holiday is Staying – and It’s Permanent

A major update in HB 7031 makes the annual Back-to-School Tax Holiday permanent, running August 1–31 each year.
Exempt items include:

  • Clothing, wallets, and bags under $100
  • School supplies under $50
  • Learning aids under $30
  • Computers and accessories up to $1,500

Other Tax Holidays and Exemptions

  • Hunting, fishing, and camping supplies: tax-free from Sept. 8–Dec. 31, 2025
  • Permanent exemptions now also cover:
    • Bicycle helmets
    • Sunscreen
    • Insect repellent
    • Life jackets

While the change eliminates the familiar hurricane supply holiday window, it may help you save money throughout the year, depending on what you buy.

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