Abbott Stresses Texas Emergency Supplies Tax Holiday

Governor Greg Abbott (R) and the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) are urging Texans to take advantage of the upcoming Emergency Supplies Sales Tax Holiday, which runs from Saturday, April 26, through Monday, April 28. The annual event gives Texans the opportunity to purchase essential emergency preparedness items tax-free, either in-store or online.

“Having emergency supplies on-hand is one of the best ways Texans can keep themselves and their loved ones safe during emergency weather events,” Governor Abbott said in a statement. “I encourage all Texans to take advantage of this tax-free holiday to purchase emergency supplies, such as flashlights, first aid kits, or fire extinguishers, in order to be prepared for any potential severe weather or disasters.”

The sales tax holiday, which was established in 2015 through Senate Bill 904 signed by the governor, was designed to promote disaster preparedness in Texas by making critical safety items more accessible.

Eligible items include portable generators, batteries, weather radios, tarps, smoke detectors, and more.

A full list of qualifying products and purchase limits is available on the Texas Comptroller’s website.

With spring storm season underway and the start of hurricane season looming on June 1, Texas officials stress the importance of preparing early. Texans are therefore encouraged to assemble or update emergency kits and ensure their families have a plan in place.

The Governor's Office and TDEM also recommend that residents visit tdem.texas.gov/prepare and TexasReady.gov for additional preparedness tips and planning resources.