Stock up hurricane supplies tax free

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) - It's a good time to stock up on batteries, plywood, generators and other severe weather supplies in Alabama.

The state's first sales tax holiday for severe weather gear begins Friday and ends Sunday.

The Legislature passed a law that waives the state's 4 percent sales tax on many emergency preparedness supplies that cost $60 or less. That includes batteries, cellphone chargers, flashlights, portable radios, waterproof sheeting, generators, plywood, weather radios, duct tape, and non-electric food storage containers. The law also waived the state sales tax on portable generators costing up to $1,000.

More than 200 cities and counties have agreed to waive local sales taxes. That means customers can save as much as 10 percent in some areas.

Sponsors of the tax holiday legislation say the tornadoes of April 27, 2011, should serve as a reminder for people to be ready for weather emergencies. The state has yet to enter the worst of hurricane season this year.

Legislative experts predict the tax holiday will reduce state revenues by about $2 million.

Click here for a list of the supplies available tax free.