Alabama to observe severe weather sales tax holiday
The tax holiday exempts certain emergency preparedness items from the state's 4-percent sales tax, and in some areas, local taxes will be waived as well, allowing shoppers to save up to 10 percent in some locations.
In east Alabama, the following municipalities are participating in the Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday:
— Calhoun County
— Anniston
— Jacksonville
— Ohatchee
— Weaver
— Heflin
— Ashland
— Etowah County
— Gadsden
— Glencoe
— Hokes Bluff
— Rainbow City
— Reece City
— Southside
— Cherokee County
— Cedar Bluff
— Talladega County
— Sylacauga
— Talladega
— Ashville
— Pell City
St. Clair County is participating in the sales tax holiday in a limited capacity. The holiday only applies to the county's one-percent sales and use tax. The one percent tax levied for education will still be charged.
'Severe weather can occur at any time, in any season,' said Alabama Retail President Rick Brown. 'The February tax holiday helps Alabama consumers remember to stock and prepare emergency kits to be ready when storms strike.'
From 12:01 a.m. on Feb. 21 through midnight on Feb. 23, items priced at $60 or less will be tax-exempt, including flashlights, lanterns, batteries, first-aid kits, cell phone chargers and fire extinguishers. Other items such as coolers, ice packs, plywood and portable generators costing $1,000 or less will also be tax-free.
For a complete list of tax-free items, visit alabamaretail.org.
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