Get prepared for hurricane season during Louisiana sales tax free weekend
By: Morgan Thomas
Updated: July 9, 2012
Being prepared is the only way to prevent what happened back in 2005 when Louisiana was hit by Hurricane Katrina. However, it doesn't take a hurricane to take out your power, severe thunderstorms can do damage, too.
"Very important that individuals go out and purchase items that are necessary for them to survive during hurricane season in case they lose power," said Richard Jefferson, Louisiana Dept. of Revenue.
The state is offering a sales tax break on things you and your family would need if the electricity went out for hours or even days.
"You can purchase candles, you can purchase flashlights... two-way radios or weather channel radios," said Jefferson.
Even if a hurricane coming isn't your biggest concern this summer, many items on the list like big packs of batteries are always needed in your home, but especially during an emergency. It's also an opportunity for outdoors-men to buy stuff like ice chests and tarps at a discount.
"If you're into camping or cooking out for the weekend, the generators and the batteries would be something very beneficial to you," said Randy Murry, Bossier City Home Depot.
Generators are also eligible.
"When the power goes out people are uncomfortable... Whenever your power goes out within ten seconds they kick up and you're running full power," said Randy Knowles, Tri-State Water Power & Air.
Although, the tax break is only 4% of the sales taxes you'll have to pay this weekend, when it comes to big ticket items like generators, that could save you some big bucks.
"Estimated that during these two days the state sales tax revenue... will be reduced by at least two million dollars," said Jefferson.
The Louisiana Hurricane Preparedness State Sales Tax Holiday kicks off Friday at midnight and lasts through Sunday.
Click here for a list of eligible items.
