Rick Scott Signs Hurricane Sales Tax Holiday Bill

Floridians shouldn't expect to pay sales tax in Florida from May 31-June 8 for hurricane prep items like generators, two-way radios and first-aid kits. On Monday, Gov. Rick Scott led theGovernors Hurricane Conference in Orlando and will be signing a bill to slash taxes.

HB 5601 would create a series of tax holidays in the Sunshine State, including a break for hurricane supplies. According to Scott, the new bill will provide $105 million in tax cuts.

"We know we have to be prepared for hurricanes," said Scott on Monday. "Hopefully we won't have them this year, but if we do, you know from May 31 to June 8 you're not going to pay sales tax."

Gas or diesel fuel tanks selling for $25 or less will be included in the tax holiday, as will a variety of batteries and non-electric food storage coolers and other hurricane preparedness items.

Several other holidays are set to go in effect this year, including a back-to-school sales tax holiday and a separate tax holiday for the purchase of energy efficient products.