Tax-Free Weekend for Emergency Supplies in Texas

Governor Abbott discusses the Texas wildfiresPhoto byX (Twitter)

This weekend is a tax-free weekend in Texas where residents can buy items needed for emergencies. Governor Greg Abbott encouraged Texans to take part in the tax-free weekend starting Saturday, April 27 to Monday, April 29. 

Unlike the back-to-school tax-free weekend in Texas (August 9 to 11, 2024), this initiative allows residents to buy supplies they need for an emergency. 

The Emergency Supplies Sales Tax Holiday Weekend was first established in Senate Bill 905 in 2015. 

Governor Abbott said according to a press release:

"Having emergency supplies on-hand is a critical part of being prepared for potential severe weather. I encourage Texans across the state to stock up on supplies they might need in an emergency to protect themselves and their loved ones, such as first aid kits, flashlights, or hand-held fire extinguishers."

The governor also posted on X:

Emergency supplies are tax-free this weekend in Texas.

Having emergency supplies ready is a critical part of being prepared for any disaster.

Texans are encouraged to stock up on supplies to protect themselves and their loved ones in case of an emergency.

Texas has natural disasters from time to time. These items will help residents during those times. 

According to the Texas Comptroller, residents can buy these items online or in person. 

• 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

You can hear more details in this KVUE video.

What do you plan to buy this weekend?