Tax Free Emergency Supplies this week: From May 25 through May 31

Virginia Department of Emergency Management

10501 Trade Court, Richmond, VA 23236

CONTACT: Laura Southard (804) 897-6510

laura.southard@vdem.virginia.gov

FOR RELEASE AT WILL - May 24, 2010

Atlantic low-pressure system has potential to become tropical storm

Virginians should take this opportunity to prepare for hurricane season

RICHMOND, VA -- A storm system now approaching the U.S. east coast has the potential to become a tropical storm and serves as a reminder to Virginia residents that the Virginia Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday starting tomorrow can help them get ready for hurricane season while saving money.

Hurricane season formally begins June 1, and the General Assembly created the sales tax holiday to ease the cost of creating an emergency supply kit. From May 25 through May 31, the purchase of certain items is exempt from sales tax. Some retailers also are discounting items that are exempt from sales tax for additional savings. Customers can use manufacturer's coupons to lower the price of an item even more.

Among the items exempt from sales tax are: bottled water of all sizes and types, flashlights, battery-powered radios, batteries and first aid kits. Frequently asked questions about the tax holiday, a media kit and links to the Virginia Department of Taxation's complete list of tax-exempt items are available at this link.